By Usha Muthusamy
KUALA LUMPUR, 11 July 2025: The Malaysian Gurukkal Sangam (Malaysian Priests’ Association) has appealed to the public to refrain from blaming the entire Hindu priestly community for isolated incidents of misconduct, following widespread criticism prompted by an inappropriate act involving a priest from Tamil Nadu at a temple. The association also emphasized the critical need for temple administrations to rigorously verify the qualifications and adherence to scriptural tenets of all employed priests.
Siva Sri N. Pragalathan Gurukkal, the national president of the Malaysian Gurukkal Sangam, addressed the issue in a recent statement, acknowledging the torrent of negative comments directed at priests across social media. “It is deeply unfair to cast blame upon all priests for the isolated mistake of one individual,” Pragalathan asserted, urging the community to exercise discernment.
A key concern articulated by the Gurukkal Sangam pertains to certain priests arriving from Tamil Nadu to serve in local temples. The association questioned whether these individuals have sufficiently studied the Agamas – the foundational Hindu scriptures governing temple construction, rituals, and priestly conduct. In response, Pragalathan strongly urged temple administrations nationwide to ensure that all prospective priests possess authentic certificates verifying their comprehensive study of these sacred texts before being engaged.
Furthermore, the Gurukkal Sangam shed light on challenges posed by some independently maintained temples that may not strictly adhere to Malaysian laws or established religious protocols. Pragalathan noted instances where individuals associated with these establishments exhibit “bad habits,” including the consumption of alcohol, which undermines the sanctity of the temple environment and contravenes religious principles.
In closing, the association reiterated its plea for the public to avoid making broad, negative generalizations based on such isolated incidents. The Malaysian Gurukkal Sangam stressed that the vast majority of Hindu priests are dedicated, sincere individuals committed to their spiritual duties and community service. The association believes that stricter verification processes by temple management, coupled with public understanding, are crucial to upholding the integrity and esteemed reputation of the priesthood in Malaysia.
