By Chris Bishop
KUCHING, Dec 5: The allocation for the Unit for Other Religions (Unifor) in 2025 will be finalided after discussions, with Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg expressing optimism about a potential increase despite the exact amount yet to be determined.
Speaking at the Unifor Appreciation Night 2024 held at Hikmah Exchange and Event Centre last night (Dec 5), Abang Johari emphasided that a rise in Sarawak’s revenue this year would enable the government to increase the allocation.
“If there is an increase in revenue, there is no harm; we can raise it year by year,” he said, adding that the matter would be deliberated with Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas.
“If there is an increase in revenue this year, we (the government) will increase the allocation. I am unsure of the amount, but I am confident it will be very positive,” he added.
Since its inception in 2017, Unifor’s funding has grown significantly, starting at RM15 million and reaching RM90 million in 2024.
Over the years, the Sarawak government has allocated RM385 million through Unifor to support the construction and restoration of places of worship, including temples and churches.
Abang Johari also highlighted the critical role of religious leaders in fostering unity and harmony among Sarawakians, emphasiding that such harmony is essential for Sarawak’s rapid development.
“I hope you (religious leaders) will continue to maintain this harmony so Sarawak can progress and develop into a high-income economy,” he said.
The event was attended by notable figures, including Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, Minister of Transport Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin, Minister of Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development Dato Sri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom, Deputy Tourism Minister Datuk Sebastian Ting, Deputy Minister of Public Health and Housing Datuk Dr Penguang Manggil, Unifor director Dato Georgina Apphia Ngau, and Roman Catholic Archbishop of Kuching Simon Poh. — DayakDaily
