KUCHING: The state government has increased funding for the development of non-Islamic houses of worship to RM90 million this year in the continuing effort to promote religious inclusivity in Sarawak.
Last year a sum of RM80 million was allocated for the same purpose.
This was announced by Deputy Premier and Minister-in-Charge of the Unit for Other Religions (Unifor) Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas during the Cheque Presentation Ceremony for Houses of Worship 2024 (Phase 2) at Wisma Bapa Malaysia today (June 12).
In his speech, Uggah highlighted the government’s commitment to inclusivity under the leadership of Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
He said this initiative aligns with the state’s Post Covid-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030).
“Out of the RM90 million allocated for this year, RM14.335 million has already been disbursed under Phase 1, benefitting 32 houses of worship across various religions and denominations.
“Today, we are pleased to announce that RM40.87 million, which constitutes 45 per cent of this year’s allocation, has been approved under Phase 2, benefitting 91 houses of worship throughout Sarawak,” he said.
During the ceremony, 42 Members of Parliament and members of the State Legislative Assembly received 86 cheques for RM 29.17 million for various religious projects in their respective constituencies.
These cheques will be handed over to the respective houses of worship by the representatives in their constituencies.
Uggah also mentioned that applications for the remaining RM34.795 million (39 per cent of this year’s allocation) are being finalised and that assistance will be disbursed soon under subsequent phases.
He urged the project committees and houses of worship to use the approved allocations wisely and called upon all MPs and assesmblymen to monitor the projects to ensure their successful implementation.
Progress reports are to be submitted to Unifor accordingly.
In his closing remarks, Uggah stressed the importance of strengthening understanding, peace, and religious harmony among the various races and religions in Sarawak.
“This unity is crucial for the successful implementation of our development agenda in line with PCDS 2030,” he said.
