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By Karen Bong
KUCHING, Aug 12: The construction of the Unit for Other Religions (Unifor) Complex at Jalan Ong Tiang Swee here is ahead of schedule, with progress recorded at 40.4 per cent completion today compared to 28 per cent recorded in May.
Impressed with the current pace of the project which is 0.34 per cent ahead of schedule, Deputy Premier and Unifor chairman Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas is confident that the project will meet its scheduled completion in July 2024 or possibly earlier, before Gawai 2024.
“It is very important for us to see that this Unifor building is completed on time and that’s why we are coming down regularly to check on the project’s development.
“If we do not monitor it closely, it will be difficult to address the ailments in critical stages,” he told reporters after a meeting and briefing by the contractors during a visit to inspect the project’s progress on site here today.
Highlighting the project’s significance, Uggah emphasised Unifor Complex’s role in fulfilling commitments to non-Islamic religious groups as this 10-storey building will become the symbol of inclusivity and further cement the unity in Sarawak.
“As the region progresses towards 2030, unity takes on increasing importance. As such, it is important that everyone work together, live peacefully as well as safeguard and strengthen the religious and racial harmony that we have,” he said.
Addressing a recent complaint about rainwater seeping into nearby premises due to heavy rain, Uggah reassured that a drainage system would be implemented by the contractor to prevent future instances and ensure the project site’s integrity.
The Unifor Complex project, implemented by Hong Seng Construction (East Malaysia) Sdn Bhd, comes at a cost of RM63.6 million.
Spanning across three acres, the project once completed will be a prominent landmark, providing a harmonious environment for various religious communities to congregate, celebrate their faith, and partake in income-generating activities.
A key feature of the complex will be a conference hall capable of accommodating up to 1,000 people.
Minister of Education, Innovation and Talent Development Dato Sri Roland Sagah Wee Inn, Unifor director Datu Jack Aman Luat, Unifor Charitable Trust board member Yussibnosh Balo and Hong Seng Construction managing director who is also Associated Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry Sarawak (ACCCIS) president Datuk Tan Jit Kee were among those present. — DayakDaily
