KUCHING: The establishment of the Unit for Other Religions (UNIFOR) on April 27, 2017 has made a positive impact on the non-Muslim communities in Sarawak until today.
This goes to show that the state government continues to safeguard the existing harmony among the multiracial society.
In 2023, UNIFOR will receive an allocation of RM100 million to continue providing funds and assistance to houses of worship as well as for missionary schools.
In the opinion of the public, doubling the amount of allocation to the unit reflects the commitment and intention of the state government in taking care of the welfare of non-Muslim communities.
Senior executive, Leandro Mcrae, 26, said the Sarawak government’s continuance in providing funds to assist houses of worship and mission schools in the state through UNIFOR shows how committed it is to protect and safeguard religious freedom in Sarawak as enshrined in the Federal Constitution.
“This will ensure the welfare and well-being of all religions will always be taken care of,” he said.
He added that the additional fund would help with the construction, renovation, or upgrading of various houses of worship, multipurpose halls, and other facilities for the convenience of the people.
Business events industry worker, Andee Yeo, opined that doubling the allocation to UNIFOR is timely and proper.
“Once again, Sarawak is leading the way towards a better and more equitable Malaysian society – one which I hope other states and Malaysians as a whole will take inspiration from and one day, emulate.
“The non-Muslim communities would most likely welcome this move but will take a wait-and-see approach.
“So the Sarawak government will need to continue proving its commitment and intentions to the people of Sarawak regardless of their cultural background, faith and beliefs,” said the 46-year-old.
Felecia Sibat, welcomed this move from the government and hoped that everyone could benefit from the allocation through UNIFOR as the majority of the people here are non-Muslim.
“With the allocation provided through UNIFOR, this is good news to us non-Muslims, but I cannot help to wonder if the amount is enough for everyone as Sarawak is a vast area.
“Of course, there are issues, for example, based on my experience, a chapel community wishes to have a new chapel built with large spaces and more convenient facilities.
“However, that was four or five years ago and until now, there is no progress yet. It might be that there were no applications made to UNIFOR,” said the 33-year-old civil servant.
Still, she hoped that the government could look into such issues where funds were not provided or available to the unfortunate non-Muslim communities.
In addition, Felecia also hoped the government through UNIFOR would continue their efforts in caring and looking after the welfare of non-Muslim communities and also help solve issues faced by the communities.
