KUCHING, Oct 13: A sum of RM24.643 million from The Unit for Other Religions (UNIFOR) in the Sarawak Premier ‘s office was granted to finance 86 projects under its First Phase grants distribution this year.
Minister-in-charge Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas said these projects included the construction, renovation or the upgrading of various houses of worship, multi purpose halls and other facilities.
He said this after presenting cheques for 76 such projects costing RM19 million.
Among those receiving them on behalf of their beneficiaries were Deputy Premier Dato Sri Dr Sim Khui Hian, Minister of Education, Innovations and Talent Development Datuk Roland Sagah Wee and Deputy Ministers Datuk Hajah Sharifah Hasidah Sayeed Aman Ghazali, Dato Gerald Rentap, Datu Dr Penguang Manggil and other assemblymen or their representatives.
Meanwhile, the presentation proved that UNIFOR is still relevant and is in dire need to assist all the non Islamic religions in the state.
Uggah added that like last year, the state government had again graciously approved a budget of RM50 million this year to allow UNIFOR to carry out its noble objective.
He advised all those religious organizations given the grants to closely monitor the implementation of their respective projects.
When done well and delivered on schedule, they would greatly benefit the people in practising their religious beliefs and obligations.
Uggah added the next distribution of grants was expected to be held later this year. -TVS
