KUCHING: The Sri Srinivasagar Kaliamman Temple, situated at Jalan Ban Hock here, faces a shortfall of over RM500,000 to finalise the construction of its ‘Raja Gopuram’, a monumental entrance tower.
Hindu Temple Association Kuching president V Sahundararaju said initially the construction cost of the 43-feet tall tower was estimated at RM900,000.
“However, due to escalating material costs, the structure will cost us at least RM1mil. Thus far, the Unit for Other Religions (Unifor) has granted us a sum of RM200,000 for the construction of the tower.
“We are looking forward to more support from the state government, while our devotees will also contribute towards it,” he told the media when met during the Pongal Festival held at the temple on today (Jan 15).
He said he hoped to see the tower completed within a year and a half.
“Once completed, it will be another eye-catching landmark and a tourist attraction, given its central location in the heart of the city.”
He further explained that the tower is positioned at the entrance of the temple of which its foundation has already been laid in 2012.
“To make a temple complete, we must have this Raja Gopuram structure. So, its foundation was laid in 2012 during the temple renovations.
“The decision to lay the foundation beforehand was a precautionary measure to protect the temple’s structure during the renovation works. Hence, lately, we are starting the construction of the tower again.”
He added that what also contributed to the delay in the construction of the tower was that it required skilled workers and sculptures from India.
“Currently, the project requires a total of 15 workers, with three already on-site collaborating with local workers.
“The remaining workers are undergoing approval processes at the Labour Office, with the earlier first quota already granting approval for four workers.”
He added that the tower will be decorated with sculptures of Hindu gods, comprising 108 miniature statues.
“The sculpting process is a very intricate process, hence, we require the workers from India,” Sahundararaju explained.
On a related note, he conveyed his gratitude to the Sarawak government, especially Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg for supporting all the other religions in the state, particularly in the maintaining and construction of houses of worship across the state.
