The purpose of religion is to control yourself, not to criticise others.
— Dalai Lama XIV
Religion is a topic I often tread lightly around, but today, I will make an exception. The truth deserves to be told, especially Sarawak’s remarkable approach to managing religious diversity through its pioneering Unit for Other Religions (UNIFOR).
I was reminded of Sarawak’s leadership on this front during a recent gathering with political friends in Kuala Lumpur. Our venue was the Huckleberry Cafe at Bangsar Shopping Centre, a favourite spot for casual meet-ups, though, as is often the case, our conversation veered into more serious territory.
We had promised to avoid politics, but our conversation still centred on the latest political developments in the country. Nevertheless, halfway through, our discussion turned to religion, specifically the controversy surrounding mandatory halal certification for non-Muslim food outlets.
The issue sparked a lively debate, with one of my friends, a division chairman of a key unity government coalition party, passionately defending the proposed halal certification. However, I interrupted the conversation to share a different view: the certification, while seen as controversial, could actually benefit non-Muslim businesses that don’t serve pork or alcohol.
By obtaining a halal certificate, these businesses could attract more Muslim customers, much like KFC in Sarawak did decades ago. Their decision to obtain halal certification led to an influx of Muslim patrons, significantly boosting their business.
My friend, whom I will call Zambri S, was intrigued by this perspective. “Bro,” he said, “as usual, your views are a little different from the others, but you’re absolutely right. Non-Muslim restaurants with halal certification would certainly see more Muslim customers.”
Our conversation then shifted to Sarawak’s unique approach to managing religious harmony. Zambri S pointed out that Sarawak stands out for its peaceful coexistence of various religions, something Malaya could learn from. He was, of course, referring to UNIFOR, established by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg in 2017.
UNIFOR, the first and only entity of its kind in Malaysia, portrays Sarawak’s commitment to religious harmony. It was initially conceived in 2016 by the late Pehin Sri Adenan Satem as a small unit under the Chief Minister’s Office.
Adenan, known for his inclusive and progressive policies, sought to create a platform for managing the welfare of non-Muslim religious communities. However, it was under Abang Johari’s leadership that UNIFOR was expanded into a fully-fledged entity on April 27, 2017.
The purpose of UNIFOR is clear: to handle the welfare of non-Muslim religions by providing monetary assistance for the development, repair and maintenance of their houses of worship. To date, more than RM200 million has been allocated for these purposes. This includes funding for 778 completed projects at a cost of RM100.4 million, with another 623 projects in progress, backed by an additional RM148.9 million.
These funds have gone towards the construction of new worship spaces, renovations, repairs and even the purchase of equipment necessary for religious ceremonies.
For those unfamiliar with Sarawak, the existence of UNIFOR might seem revolutionary. But for those of us who call the state home, it is a natural extension of our longstanding traditions of tolerance and inclusivity. Sarawak is a state where religion has never been a divisive issue. In fact, it is this sense of unity that binds our diverse communities together.
Abang Johari himself has often stressed the importance of religious harmony. As he once said, “Whether we are Christians, Muslims, Buddhists, Hindus, Taoists or Sikhs, we have always upheld and continuously enhanced the spirit of brotherhood and mutual respect among us.”
These are not just words, but principles that guide the state’s governance.
The Premier’s commitment to fairness across religious and ethnic lines has earned him respect far beyond Sarawak’s borders. His administration’s dedication to maintaining a peaceful, harmonious society is a source of pride for all Sarawakians, who proudly identify themselves as ‘Anak Sarawak’. Our leaders, both past and present, have created an environment where diversity is celebrated rather than feared.
At our gathering, Zambri S was effusive in his praise of Sarawak. “Sarawak is the most peaceful state when it comes to race and religion. We in Peninsular Malaysia have a lot to learn from your leaders, bro.”
I could not help but feel proud of my home state and the leadership that has made this possible. It is not just about the policies, but the underlying philosophy that drives them — a belief in the fundamental goodness of people, regardless of their faith.
In today’s world, where religious tensions often make headlines, Sarawak’s model of religious harmony is something that PMX Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim & Co could learn from Abang Johari and his colleagues.
UNIFOR is not just an administrative body; it represents the spirit of unity that defines Sarawak. It is an acknowledgement that while Islam is the official religion of Malaysia, other faiths are respected and supported, ensuring that no one is left behind.
As we wrapped up our conversation at Huckleberry Café, Zambri S made a parting remark that stuck with me. “Maybe PMX should consider an exchange programme between our states so that we can learn from Sarawak’s model of religious harmony.”
He may be on to something. Sarawak’s success in fostering peaceful coexistence is not just a regional triumph, but a national example worth emulating.
Perhaps it is time for the rest of Malaysia to take a page out of Sarawak’s book and create similar initiatives like UNIFOR in their states. After all, religious harmony is not just a Sarawakian ideal — it is a Malaysian one.
The views expressed here are those of the columnist and do not necessarily represent the views of Sarawak Tribune.
