MIRI: The Unit for Other Religions (Unifor) is not a political agenda of the GPS state government.
Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah explained that it is a manifestation of the government’s inclusiveness towards other religions besides Islam.
He was officiating at a dinner celebrating the proclamation and elevation of the Holy Trinity Church Lambir to a parish last Sunday night.
For the last two years since its inception, Unifor has assisted in infrastructural development of more than 300 different houses of worship all over the state.
Uggah said this is because the government recognised the very important roles of churches, temples and other religious organisations in societal development and in forging solid unity and harmony among the people of different religions.
“When we enjoy great unity and harmony, our society becomes very stable. Churches too can assist in socio economic development of the people. For these reasons, we in the government are very supportive of churches and temples,” he said.
“Our Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg is prepared to listen. He has funded Unifor and this year has allocated RM30 million to it.”
He added besides the annual allocation, the government had also given some other funds. Recently Unifor was given approval to set up its own trust fund.
This, he said, was an important development for it would allow the unit to seek other sources of funds including donations from the private sector.
He said when the unit had ample fund it would plan to implement socio-economic programmes as well.
Unifor has been allocated a three-acre site at Ong Tiang Swee Road in Kuching to build its headquarters.
It is also in the process of increasing its workforce from 22 currently to 37 to enhance its services.
On harmony among the various religions, he urged the people to continue to maintain it as “it binds us all”.
“We must build a wall against outside forces out to break this harmony. This is the duty of everyone,” he said.
Uggah also paid tribute to the church committee under the leadership of Pemanca Wilson Siang for their tireless efforts in raising RM2 million for its building fund.
“He is the man who helped make the church what it is today,” he said, adding that Wilson had co-operated and collaborated well with the government.
Uggah later announced a grant of RM400,000 from Unifor for the Holy Trinity parish.
Sibuti Member of Parliament Lukanisman Awang Sauni, Piasau assemblyman Datuk Sebastian Ting and Lamir assemblyman Ripin Lamat each gave RM10,000 while Telang Usan assemblyman Dennis Ngau gave RM5,000.
Deputy State Secretary Datuk Jaul Samion, Unifor director Datuk Dr Ngenang Janngu and the Bishop of the Anglican Church in Sarawak and Brunei Danald Jute were among those present at the dinner.
