BEING one of the most-developed states in Malaysia, it is no wonder that Selangor is very ethnically-diverse with multiple religions and cultures co-existing in the same area.
It is also to no surprise that the city would be home to some established and memorable temples with beautiful architectural landmarks, so much so that some even became known as tourist spots.
However, unlike many other tourist spots, it is advised to be dressed properly when visiting temples out of respect for other people who might be there for more religious reasons.
Temples have always been packed during Chinese New Year (CNY) and although the movement control order (MCO 2.0) is still in effect, the Government have already announced new standard operating procedures (SOPs) for this year’s CNY celebrations.
With the new SOPs, it is permitted to perform prayers for 30-minutes at the temple within 10km radius with a limit of 30 persons at a time on three dates (February 11, 12 and 19).
Knowing that, travellers who admire great architectural marvels can at least visit these eye-catching spots during these festive celebrations (while strictly adhering to SOPs, of course).
Qi Jian Xian Shi Fo Zu Gu Miao Temple, Kuala Selangor
Qi Jian Xian Shi Fo Zu Gu Miao in Pasir Penambang, Kuala Selangor located near the river and is already known as a popular destination for tourists. Dedicated to Lord Buddha, this two-level temple is unique as its upper level consists of a man-made cave with overhanging stalactites. The deity Di Zang Wang Pu Sa is worshipped here.
Fo Guang Shan (FGS) Dong Zen Temple, Jenjarom Kuala Langat
Every Chinese New Year, Jenjarom town is lit up with magnificent lanterns at the Fo Guang Shan (FGS) Dong Zen Temple. The temple has been running an annual CNY Lantern and Flora Festival for more than a decade and it has become somewhat a staple on Selangor’s events calendar, thanks to its display of giant light instalments.
Kuan Yin Temple, Klang
Built in 1892, Kuan Yin Temple is one of the oldest Chinese Temples in the royal city in Klang. It was almost demolished before the Sultan Selangor declared it as one of the state’s heritage sites. Historically, the temple was created due to the Fujian Chinese who fled their hometown settled in Klang to fill labor shortages in tin mines, plantations, and railway constructions back in the day, where they brought along their Gods and Goddesses with them to build a temple in their new hometown.
Nan Tian Temple, Sekinchan
Nan Tian Temple (Nine Emperor Gods Temple) in Sekinchan, a Chinese temple located in the middle of Sekinchan paddy field. Nan Tian Temple was established in year 1984 and extended in year 2004 into today’s scale. Every 1st to 9th of the ninth month of the Lunar Calendar, the worshipers celebrate the birthday of Nine Emperor Gods for a period of ten days.
Guan Yin Gu See Temple, Kuala Kubu Bharu
Located at the peak of a hill, it offers mesmerizing views from the top with a statue of Guan Yin Bodhisattva overlooking the nearby village. Historical architecture in Kuala Kubu Bharu includes traditional shophouses spanning from the 1920s to the 1980s, as well as old fire and railway stations. A Buddhist temple (Guan Yin Ge Temple) that survived the flood was refurbished in the 1980s, while Cecil Ranking’s grave is located within the compound of MRSM Kuala Kubu Bharu and serves as a monument to the 1883 flood. – Feb 12, 2021
