Langkawi Tourism objects to demolition of iconic eagle statue

LTA president, Zainuddin Kadir said the 12-metre statue in Dataran Lang or Lang Square here had became a key tourist attraction since 20 years ago in the holiday island.

"It has becomes an icon for Langkawi for a quite long period, not as a place of worship or activities that are contrary to Islam," he told Bernama.

On Friday, Perak deputy mufti Zamri Hashim in a local daily had written that it was forbidden in Islam to make full-bodied statues of living creatures such as humans or animals.

Zainuddin, who claimed to be representing 8,000 LTA members, said he had sent a letter to Zamri requesting further explanation on the matter.

"I'm still waiting for his answers and willing to have an open dialogue session with him, if needed," he said.

He also requested the authorities to take into consideration the welfare of the Langkawi community, the majority of whom depend on the tourism industry.