KUALA LUMPUR — The long-standing issue surrounding the escalator construction at Batu Caves is expected to be resolved by July, paving the way for the project’s continuation, according to Tan Sri R Nadarajah, chairman of the Sri Maha Mariamman Temple Devasthanam.
Nadarajah, who oversees the Thaipusam celebrations at the iconic site, confirmed that Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari had assured him that the remaining challenges were purely technical and would be settled in the coming months.
The matter was discussed during Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s visit to Batu Caves today, when Anwar convened a meeting with both Nadarajah and the Menteri Besar.
“The Prime Minister called me and the Menteri Besar and said this matter must be settled. He (Anwar) said it is a community matter and should not be prolonged,” Nadarajah told reporters after accompanying Anwar during his visit.
The escalator project had been delayed due to a dispute over a temporary occupation licence for a related commercial development, which also included the escalator proposal. The Selangor state government’s rejection of the licence resulted in significant setbacks and varying opinions among stakeholders.
However, Nadarajah emphasised that there was no conflict between the temple and the state government, labelling the issue as a technical delay rather than a major disagreement.
“It is only a technical matter, but people made it a big one,” he explained, urging the public to refrain from further speculation now that the issue has been resolved.
He clarified that the temple operates under a court order, which had complicated administrative processes. Acknowledging this, the Prime Minister informed the Menteri Besar of the legal constraints, and both parties agreed to move forward with resolving the issue.
Nadarajah also expressed gratitude for Anwar’s ongoing support for the Indian community and Batu Caves, highlighting that the Prime Minister had recently approved an additional RM1 million allocation for development at the site.
The chairman expressed his satisfaction, adding that the temple would adhere to the Prime Minister’s directives. – January 30, 2026