KUALA LUMPUR, 3 Sept 2008: There is no change in the Cabinet’s decision to consider fresh applications from Hindu temples and Sikh gurdwaras for priests, musicians and artisans from India, Human Resources Minister Datuk Dr S Subramaniam said today.
"This issue has been clarified in the media many times, and I wish to state here that there is no change in the Cabinet’s decision," he said in a statement here today.
He said the decision was that the visas and permits for priests, musicians and artisans from India among fresh applicants would be valid for a maximum period of three years and based on a set of strict guidelines.
If there were any weaknesses at the state level or the Immigration Department on the implementation of the Cabinet decision, they would be rectified, he said.
"We will monitor the implementation of this decision and should there be any weaknesses, we well take steps to correct them," he said.
He advised temple committees to contact his senior private secretary at 03-8886 5003 or 012-388 7350 for any queries. – Bernama
