Abg Jo: S'wak govt channels RM565 mln to Unifor for religious infrastructure, inclusivity
MIRI (July 21): The Sarawak government has allocated a total of RM565 million to the Unit for Other Religions (Unifor), reaffirming its commitment to ensuring that all Sarawakians can worship in environments that are safe, dignified and comfortable, regardless of their faith.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said of the total sum, RM475 million has already been channelled through Unifor to support the development and enhancement of houses of worship across Sarawak.
'These efforts are anchored in the principle of social inclusivity,' he said in his speech read by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas during the Interfaith Thanksgiving event held in conjunction with the Sarawak Day celebration at a hotel here last night.
He said the state government's support covers places of worship for various faiths, including Christianity, Buddhism, Hinduism, Taoism, Sikhism, the Baha'i faith and traditional belief systems.
Meanwhile, the remaining RM90 million has been allocated to missionary schools throughout Sarawak since 2021.
Abang Johari also noted that Unifor is the only agency of its kind in Malaysia, describing it as a clear reflection of the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS)-led Sarawak government's deep respect for the state's diverse religious landscape.
'With sustained support, Unifor has cultivated a strong and stable ecosystem of interfaith harmony, making Sarawak a model of unity across Malaysia,' he said.
He added that through Unifor, the state government will continue to strengthen the infrastructure of religious institutions, ensuring that every citizen enjoys freedom of faith and peace of worship.
At the same time, he stressed the need for Sarawak to remain a beacon of peace and unity amid growing global challenges.
He called on religious leaders to play a vital role in fostering interfaith dialogue and promoting mutual understanding among communities.
'They are crucial partners in building a holistic and thriving society, helping shape the moral compass of our future generation,' he said.
On the event, Abang Johari said it offered a meaningful opportunity to deepen interfaith connections and appreciate the spiritual diversity that defines Sarawak.
'When we come together to celebrate our traditions, we embrace the spirit of inclusivity, a principle embedded in our Post-Covid Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030.
'Let this celebration serve as a reaffirmation of our shared values, mutual respect, and our continued journey towards a more united and holistic Sarawak,' he added.
Among those present were Sarawak Transport Minister Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin, who is also the minister in-charge of the Sarawak Day celebration 2025, Deputy Minister of Housing and Local Government Datuk Dr Penguang Manggil and Unifor director Georgina Apphia Ngau. Abang Johari Interfaith Thanksgiving event lead Unifor
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