KUCHING: The RM70 million cost for the soon-to-be constructed Unit for Other Religions (Unifor) Complex befits the sanctity and function of Unifor, said Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) information chief Datuk Idris Buang.
He said that this took into account the need to give due respect and dignity to all concerned from the various religions who would visit the complex.
“It would be a one-stop centre for the objectives it is meant for,” he said in response to Parti Sarawak Bersatu (PSB) Youth who earlier questioned the purpose of having the complex while noting that RM70 million was no small sum.
“If there is any iconic landmark to signify religious freedom in the state, I believe that this proposed Unifor Complex would augur well for that purpose,” said Idris, who is also Muara Tuang assemblyman.
He said that the hue and cry that PSB Youth was making over the proposed building was far too misconceived and simply out of place.
“I think they have no better issues to play with,” he said.
PSB Youth said that the Unifor Complex was a ‘waste of money’ unless it served other purposes than solely dealing with non-Islamic affairs and charitable trust.
Despite admiring Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg’s liberal approach for other religions, they opined that the money would be better spent on assisting various churches, Chinese temples, and Hindu temples with upgrading works.
