What is the state doing to reduce illegal RIBI?

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State Government Initiatives to Address Illegal Non-Islamic Places of Worship

The Penang state government is actively working to reduce the number of illegal non-Islamic places of worship (RIBI) by proposing a new policy, enhancing monitoring, and engaging with religious associations. This approach aims to ensure all such establishments comply with building regulations and land use plans, thereby formalising their status and preventing future unauthorised constructions.
Establishing a Formal Policy Framework

A key initiative involves the establishment of a clear policy for the construction or renovation of non-Islamic places of worship. This policy would mandate that all RIBI must apply for planning permission and building plan approvals through the state’s One-Stop Centre. The objective is to guarantee that building designs, structures, and locations adhere strictly to the Uniform Building By-Laws (UBBL) and are consistent with approved land use plans, thereby preventing illegal constructions from the outset.
Enhanced Monitoring and Identification Efforts

Continuous monitoring and updates by the respective city councils have contributed to a decrease in the number of illegal RIBI. Between 2023 and 2024, the Seberang Perai City Council identified 43 illegal RIBI, while the Penang Island City Council recorded 149 such sites. This diligent oversight allows for the timely identification of unauthorised structures, facilitating subsequent action and enforcement.
Collaborative Engagement with Religious Associations

The state government is committed to engaging with representatives from RIBI associations to underscore the importance of submitting official applications before commencing any construction or renovation work. This collaborative approach aims to foster understanding and compliance. Furthermore, the state is working with the Registrar of Societies (RoS) to encourage all RIBI to register their information, thereby creating an official record of their existence and operations within the state.

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What is the state doing to reduce illegal RIBI?

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