BATU CAVES, Malaysia — Malaysia prides itself on being a multicultural, multiracial society. Although Malaysia is predominantly Muslim, around 6 percent of the population is Hindu, primarily of Indian descent. Carved in caves in the mountains near Kuala Lumpur, the Batu Caves Hindu Temple Complex is one of the most popular Hindu shrines outside of India. A 140-foot tall statue of the Hindu deity Lord Murugan guards the entrance. It’s the tallest statue of Murugan in the world. Visitors must climb 272 steep steps to reach the main temple area. As part of the Senior Journalists Seminar, Kim Lawton visited the complex, recording video and taking photos of Hindu prayer rituals occurring there. For another take, visit Kimberly Winston’s blog at Religion News Service.