Chow was commenting on the Court of Appeal’s recent decision granting permission for Associated Pan Malaysia Cement (APMC) to evict a century-old Buddhist monastery situated in Gunung Kanthan, Perak.

In its ruling, a three-judge panel said the Dhamma Sakyamuni Caves Monastery did not have any legal basis to halt the eviction order.

“Certainly, we all hold a fondness for nature and harbour fears of losing precious habitats. Personally, I find the verdict quite disheartening, given that it pertains to the disruption of natural creations.

“However, we must also acknowledge the existence of pressing human necessities,” Chow told FMT.

Gunung Kanthan is one of 12 remaining limestone hills in Kinta Valley National Geopark, home to several endangered species of flora and fauna, including the bent-toed geckos, snow-white orchids and tiny snails.

About 80% of the hill has already been cleared by quarrying activities.

The ecologist called for a dialogue involving experts in all related fields, particularly geology and ecology, to work together towards a solution beneficial to all parties concerned.

“It is important to determine whether the caves’ destruction (will be) a great loss to Malaysia or just one of those things,” said Chow.

Tan Kee Huar, president of the Taiping Buddhist Society, said APMC should consider handing the land over to the monastery if such a move will not significantly affect the company’s business operations.

“Although relocating the monastery is technically possible, the unique statues and sculptures, which are integral to the site’s identity and possibly its historical value, would be permanently lost, representing an irreplaceable loss to the community and to heritage,” he said.

Tan said it was critical that archaeologists be involved in efforts to preserve the monastery.

“Archaeologists can tell how old the temple is, and that can give us support and strength for the law authorities to reconsider, because there is historical value there,” he said.

He said although Buddhists are inclined to protect their temples and monasteries, the primary concern here is the legal ownership of the land.

“Some of these Buddhist temples are constructed on private property, which often leads to the government denying them licences as they are not the official landowners,” he said.