DISEMBER 2023
Sarawak Increases UNIFOR Grant To RM110 Million For 2024, Addresses Infrastructure Needs For Non-Islamic Religions
KUCHING, Dec 20 - Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, announced an increase in the annual grant for the Unit for Other Religions (Unifor) by RM10 million, reaching a total of RM110 million for 2024. The enhanced fund aims to support non-Islamic religions in Sarawak, particularly addressing infrastructure needs.
Speaking at the Unifor Appreciation Night, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari acknowledged the rising demands from various houses of worship and quoted Archbishop Simon Poh, suggesting separate funds for specific projects like the ongoing construction of St Peter Cathedral at Padungan.
"I don't mind providing separate funds," he stated, emphasizing the commitment to assisting regardless of religious beliefs. He highlighted the GPS elected representatives' contribution through the Minor Rural Project (MRP) grant.
"I firmly believe that when you help people, God will help you in return," Abang Johari expressed, reflecting on the government's success in doubling Sarawak's revenue under his leadership.
In other developments, he revealed that Universiti Malaya is planning to establish a law faculty off-campus in Sarawak, focusing on Native Customary Right (NCR) and Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63).
The Premier also highlighted Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak's law degree program and emphasized the State's commitment to providing free education by 2026.
He stated that all Sarawakian children eligible to enter state-owned universities, regardless of race or religion, will have their fees covered, emphasizing the importance of technical and financial disciplines.
As the State intensifies its transition to a higher-income economy, Abang Johari emphasized the need for careful planning and preparation to implement free education, acknowledging the effort required to ensure a talented workforce for Sarawak's future progress.
Looking ahead to 2030, Abang Johari urged Sarawakians to foster mutual respect, preserve peace, and work in unity for progress.
Present at the event were 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.
Sumber dari : Sarawakku