By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, July 6: An additional RM350,000 grant from the Unit for Other Religions (UNIFOR) has been disbursed to St Margaret Church Stampin to support the ongoing construction of its new church building, which is estimated to cost over RM4.2 million.
Kota Sentosa assemblyman Wilfred Yap Yau Sin presented the cheque to parish priest Father Almond Pritchie in a simple yet meaningful ceremony this morning, witnessed by church committee members, community leaders and parishioners.
At the same event, Yap also contributed RM3,000 of his own funds to the church’s Women’s Fellowship to support its welfare and community outreach programmes.
This latest allocation brings the total UNIFOR assistance to St Margaret Church to RM2.05 million to date, as part of the Sarawak government’s commitment to strengthening and supporting non-Muslim houses of worship throughout the State.
“St Margaret Church has long been a cornerstone of Kampung Stampin and BDC, not just as a house of worship but also a hub for education, charity and community service,” Yap said during the ceremony.
He emphasised that the financial support from UNIFOR reflects the inclusive policy of the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) government under the leadership of Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
“Sarawak is the only State in Malaysia with a dedicated unit like UNIFOR to ensure no religion is left behind,” he added.
Yap also acknowledged the financial burden faced by many faith communities in completing large-scale infrastructure projects, particularly in suburban and rural areas.
He commended the church leadership, led by Father Almond, for their perseverance and strong coordination in mobilising resources and managing construction despite rising costs and economic uncertainties.
“I will continue to advocate for more support for St Margaret Church and other places of worship in Kota Sentosa so that all communities can continue to thrive in peace and mutual respect,” he assured.
Once completed, the new St Margaret Church building will provide an enhanced space for worship, religious education, and outreach programmes to benefit thousands of parishioners across the greater Stampin and BDC areas. – DayakDaily
