KUCHING, Dec 20: The annual grant for Unit for Other Religions (Unifor) has been increased by RM10 million to a total of RM110 million for 2024 to assist all non-Islamic religions in Sarawak, especially with their infrastructure needs.
Announcing this, Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg noted that the allocated amount is not enough to cope with the increasing requests from various houses of worship throughout Sarawak.
“Archbishop (Roman Catholic Archbishop of Kuching Archdiocese Simon Poh) has whispered to me just now regarding St Peter Cathedral (at Padungan of which construction is still ongoing).
“He suggested not to burden the Unifor fund. He is smart. I don’t mind providing separate funds (for this purpose),” he said when addressing Unifor Appreciation Night held at a hotel here tonight.
Assuring that Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) elected representatives are also helping through their Minor Rural Project (MRP) grant, Abang Johari emphasised that the government will help irrespective of religious beliefs.
“I firmly believe that when you help people, God will help you in return.
“The Sarawak government has been helping people and it has been so far so good. Under my leadership, my team has managed to double Sarawak’s revenue from RM6 billion to RM12 billion within six years. That’s our blessing,” he said.
Abang Johari expressed optimism that the revenue could further grow until 2030.
With that outlook, he urged Sarawakians to foster mutual respect, preserve peace and harmony among the diverse communities, enhance stability, and work in unity for the progress and prosperity of Sarawak.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, Minister of Education, Innovation and Talent Development Dato Sri Roland Sagah Wee Inn, Deputy Minister of Education and Innovation Datuk Dr Annuar Rapaee, Deputy Minister of Transport Datuk Henry Harry Jinep and Unifor director Datuk Jack Aman Luat were among those present. — DayakDaily
