-M. Kulasekaran, Member of Parliament, November 25, 2015.

When debating the financial estimates for Tourism Minister I raised the following 3 issues of public importance:

The Minister Nazri in response to issues raised as regards 1) on Vivekananda Ashram he said he made the right and correct decision to confer Heritage status to Vivekananda Ashram. He said the decision was in the best interest of all, in particular the trustees who he hoped will abide by it. He said he is firm in this decision and will not change or alter the decision and will fight and resist the application by the  Trustees to challenge his decision to confer heritage status on the Ashram. The case is coming up in the High Court KL tomorrow. He welcomes the decision by me as a lawyer to support the Minister’s decision and welcomes any lawyers and groups can come in support of him in court.

Bujang Valley

Bujang valley in Kedah is one of the oldest historical sites. Although much damage has been done by developers, the Minister agrees to provide necessary help and protection to the site. In this respect the Minister has granted a stop work order to prevent any development in and around Bujang valley area. Only archaeologist are allowed to be at the site to work on the site area.

Batu caves as UNESCO site

I asked the Minister as regards the latest on the process to grant UNESCO status for Batu Caves. The Minister agreed that they are willing to get the necessary status provided all ancillary documents and information are provided to his Ministry. In this respect the Minister suggested that I get the necessary feedback from the public and provide same to the Tourism Ministry. I will soon meet interested groups and NGOs to enlist their help and forward same to the Minister.