Indian-Origin Actress Alleges Sexual Assault by Priest in Malaysia

In a shocking incident that has drawn significant media attention, Lishalliny Kanaran, an Indian-origin actress and television host, has publicly accused a priest of sexual assault during a visit to the Mariamman Temple in Sepang, Malaysia. The alleged assault occurred on July 4, 2025, when Kanaran was allegedly misled by the priest under the guise of receiving a blessing.

According to her detailed account shared via social media, Kanaran visited the temple alone, having frequented it to enhance her spiritual journey. She described how, after praying, the priest invited her to his office for a special blessing. "Even as I followed, something didn’t feel right. Something in my gut was uneasy," she recounted. Inside the office, the priest reportedly poured a strong-smelling liquid into water, claiming it was sacred and reserved for select individuals.

"He said it was from India, and that they don’t usually give it to ‘ordinary people’… so much that my eyes stung and I couldn’t even open them," Kanaran stated. What transpired next was profoundly disturbing; she alleged that the priest molested her. In her own words, "Then, without warning, he put his hands inside my blouse, into my bra, and started touching me inappropriately. I froze. And I still don’t understand why."

Kanaran expressed the trauma she experienced, noting that upon returning to India, she confided in her mother, who subsequently filed a complaint with the local authorities. However, when they returned to the temple, the priest was nowhere to be found. "Apparently, the priest wasn’t there anymore. Someone had already reported him before for the same thing and yet no action had been taken," Kanaran lamented.

The local police confirmed that the priest, an Indian national filling in for the resident priest who was abroad, was being sought after the complaint was lodged. Assistant Commissioner Norhizam stated, "The suspect’s modus operandi was allegedly to sprinkle holy water on the victim’s face and body before proceeding to molest her."

Kanaran also criticized the temple authorities for attempting to protect their reputation rather than supporting her. As this story unfolds, the implications of this incident extend beyond personal trauma, raising critical questions about accountability and the need for protective measures for individuals seeking spiritual guidance.

This case highlights the urgent need for reforms within religious institutions to safeguard against abuse, as well as the importance of supporting victims who come forward with their stories. The ongoing investigation and public discourse surrounding this matter may drive future policy changes aimed at preventing similar incidents in the future.