By Magdalene Rogers & Tania Matu
KUCHING: People from walks of life, particularly the non-Muslims, welcome the announcement by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg that the state will be increasing its allocation for the Unit For Other Religions (UNIFOR) next year.
During the UNIFOR’s appreciation ceremony in Sibu recently, the premier said he wanted to double the funding for the unit to RM100 million next year.
He said this was part of sharing the state’s revenue with everyone as there was an increase of revenue for the state this year.
Under the 2022 Budget, UNIFOR receives RM50 million.
KENT AARON NURWIB, 28
Storekeeper
As a Christian, I am very grateful for the equal treatment given to non-Muslims by our state leaders. The additional funding from UNIFOR can be further used to upgrade churches, especially the old ones in rural places. Churches can also use it to purchase new Bibles.
AARON BELARE PETER, 20
Student
I am very grateful for this positive news. I believe more funds will benefit religious bodies in Sarawak. I also hope more funds can be channelled to UNIFOR for many years to come for the benefit of Christians and followers of other faiths.
DATUK RICHARD WEE,
Federation of Chinese Associations of Sarawak president
We welcome the premier’s announcement. It shows that Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) under the premier’s leadership is committed to showing that Sarawak is indeed different from the rest of Malaysia when it comes to religious harmony. With the increased allocation, more houses of worship including temples and churches will be able to receive financial assistance for their maintenance, repairs and expansion. At the same time, it will also alleviate the financial burdens of many religious bodies.
KHO TECK WAN
Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP) Women chief
The amount of funding allocated by the state government in the 2023 budget for UNIFOR shows the inclusivity of the GPS government. The UNIFOR budget started in 2017 at RM15 million and gradually increased every year. It is proof of the political will of the GPS government and its sincerity in building a multicultural and religious society. Actions speak louder than words. I hope every Sarawakian treasures and appreciates this political decision that is unique to Sarawak only.
PENGHULU LUCY LINGAM
Thumbs up to premier’s move to increase the allocation for UNIFOR. UNIFOR exists only in Sarawak and we, as a minority, really appreciate the move as the cost of living has gone up.
