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Dr Sim: Sarawak to continue upholding religious freedom, supporting all faiths
Dr Sim (second left) presents certificate of participation to a stall operator. At left is Batu Lintang assemblyman See Chee How. – Photo by Hii Kheng Juong
KUCHING (June 15): Sarawak will continue to uphold religious freedom through rendering support to the development of various religions in the state, said Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian
The Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government noted that Sarawak has remained financially strong and politically stable due to the state government's commitment to inclusivity and religious tolerance.
'The Sarawak government will not stop its support for all religious organisations in carrying out their charitable and educational activities,' he said at the launch of the Kuching Buddhist Fellowship's charity fair today.
Dr Sim highlighted that the Unit for Other Religions (Unifor), inaugurated by former chief minister the late Pehin Sri Adenan Satem, has been granting funds to various non-Muslim religious bodies over the years.
He said Unifor annual allocation, amounting to RM100 million, has helped many Buddhist and Christian organisations in improving their infrastructure and community services.
Citing the charity fair as an example, he said such programme should serve as a platform for religious leaders to instil positive values and characteristics in young devotees.
According to Dr Sim, it is crucial for participants, especially youth, to learn about the importance of showing compassion to others rather than being preoccupied with electronic gadgets.
To contribute to the state's development, he said religious organisations must play a role in educating children from a young age, guiding them onto the right path.
'It does not matter how much you have donated to charities because every little effort counts. It is the spirit of contribution that we want to promote among the community.'
Dr Sim was delighted to note that Buddhist organisations have been promoting compassion, positivity and equality, all of which are commendable qualities that are in tandem with the principles of nation-building.
He hoped that all Sarawakians will keep up their efforts of safeguarding the state toward ensuring that all continue to enjoy stability and prosperity. Dr Sim Kui Hian lead religious freedom religious organisations support
