YB Jagdeep on his site inspection at Wadda Gurdwara Sahib
By V. Sivaji
The Penang State Government supports all places of worship irrespective of race, religion or creed, as such religious matters should not be politicised.
The advice was made by Penang State Government caretaker Committee chairman for Housing, Local Government, Town and Country Planning YB Jagdeep Singh Deo.
He was on his visit to the iconic Wadda Gurdwara Sahib which is 122 years-old which is undergoing restoration work.
Also present was Penang Island City Council mayor Dato A. Rajendran, Dato Malkit Singh restoration committee chairman, Santok Singh, temple chairman, Dato Gulab Mahatam Rai, Rozaini Hassan from Penang Heritage Commission among others.
“We have gathered here in conjunction with our World Heritage Day (July 7) celebrations to give an update on this project.
“The recognition from UNESCO for the 122-year-old building is very vital and the Sikh community, although small, is confident to carry out restoration.
“We hope to complete the renovation work by 24 months and we cannot rush the work as the heritage has many limitations from UNESCO.
“Among them is that we cannot use cement and must use lime in accordance with their guidelines.
“In England too there are many Gurduwars but not as old as this Gurduwara. We hope that more visitors will come here to visit our Gurdwara,” said Jagdeep, adding that they also want to raise their recognition as a national heritage site.
He also added that the RM6.1 million project todate have raised RM 2.5 million so far. The state government has allocated RM800,000 for the worthy cause.
“We also want to continue our legacy of providing free meals to the needy from all races.
Meanwhile, Rajendran added that they will support the conservation work and will provide whatever support and also expert advice
Jagdeep later toured the Gurdwara to check on the work progress
