KUCHING – The Sarawak government has distributed RM35.77 million for the development of various religious sites across the state.
This funding, managed by the Sarawak Other Religious Affairs Unit (UNIFOR), forms the second phase of its 2025 allocation and will support 107 individual projects.
This latest disbursement is part of a larger RM90 million grant earmarked for the present year. The substantial financial commitment underscores the state administration’s dedication to fostering balanced and inclusive development for all religious communities.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas presented the allocations during a ceremony at the UNIFOR Building Hall on Tuesday.
He confirmed that, to date, a combined total of 171 projects have been funded under both the first and second phases, utilising the RM35.77 million already released.
He also indicated that the remainder of the RM90 million grant is scheduled to be distributed in November. This structured approach ensures a steady flow of resources for ongoing and new initiatives.
In his address, Datuk Amar Douglas stressed the importance of accountability. He revealed that UNIFOR is enhancing its monitoring procedures to guarantee all funds are used appropriately, transparently, and in line with established guidelines.
A specific challenge was highlighted, with 220 houses of worship identified as having outstanding expenditure reports.
The government has set a clear objective to resolve this backlog and bring the number down to zero by December 2025.
The Deputy Premier further explained that UNIFOR is now taking direct responsibility for overseeing project implementation.
This move is designed to ensure that all assistance programmes achieve their intended goals and deliver tangible benefits.
Religious bodies and site management committees were reminded to base their funding applications on genuine, demonstrated needs. This practice is considered vital for the fair and equitable distribution of available resources.
In a related development, it was noted that the state government has also allocated a separate RM20 million for the upgrading of religious schools throughout Sarawak.
This initiative aligns with the broader policy aim of strengthening the infrastructure supporting religious and community education.
The cheque handover event saw 14 legislators and representatives receive the allocated funds for their respective districts.
The ceremony was attended by several prominent figures, including Deputy Premier Datuk Dr. Amar Sim Kui Hian and Transport Minister Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin.
