The association made its request known at its 21st delegates conference here today, which was opened by Samy Vellu, who is also the Works Minister.

Its president Dr N.S. Rajendran said students in national and secondary schools should have religious education similar to that taught to students in Tamil schools nationwide.

He said it had been conducting religious educational programmes in Tamil schools throughout the country since 1999.

Samy Vellu, in his speech, said it was essential for all children to begin receiving religious education and guidance at an early age.

Encouraging the community to be proactive, he proposed the setting up of a Malaysia Consultative Council for Hinduism to look into the needs of Hindus and the religion.

"Our main concern is Hindu temples. It is sad to note that many temples have been built haphazardly with no proper management. In one square mile, we can see as many as four or five Hindu temples," he said.

He said the problem had been exacerbated by indiscriminate building on government land without permission and other unsuitable places, and that many of these temples would be demolished soon.

He said he had, at the recent Malaysia Hindu Sangam's annual general meeting, proposed a solution to the problem which would ensure better care, management and protection for Hindu temples and religion.

He added that co-ordination among Hindu organisations was vital if they were to undertake this effort.

He said future courses and activities organised by Hindu-based organisations should take into account not just the religious aspect, but also the economic and social problems faced by Hindus in Malaysia.

Source: New Straits Times - July 07, 2003