SEOUL – The Sarawak government has reinforced its commitment to global Islamic solidarity with a strategic contribution of USD 25,000 to the Korea Muslim Federation (KMF). This donation is designated to support the development of key community facilities for the Muslim minority in South Korea.
The allocation was announced by the Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg, during his visit to the KMF Halal Department in Itaewon.
The funds will be split, with USD 15,000 dedicated to upgrading facility equipment for the KMF Halal Department and USD 10,000 directed to the KMF Kindergarten to bolster its educational programmes.
The announcement concluded the Premier’s official working visit to South Korea, where he also chaired a meeting for the Regional Islamic Da’wah Council of Southeast Asia and the Pacific (RISEAP).
His itinerary included a tour of the newly launched KMF Kindergarten and Mosque facilities, followed by a comprehensive briefing on the history and growth of Islam in the country.
In his address, the Premier praised the resilience of the Korean Muslim community. He acknowledged the challenges of upholding religious faith and cultural values in a society where the majority does not share the same beliefs.
“Though it is not easy to live in a community where the majority are not Muslims, we know that as Muslims, we can overcome these challenges,” he stated.
He further emphasised that the principles of ukhuwah, or Islamic brotherhood, and mutual respect are what unite Muslims across the world, transcending geographical and cultural boundaries. This donation is a practical manifestation of that shared spirit, he explained.
Separately, the Premier elaborated on the role of RISEAP, which he leads as President. He described the council as a vital knowledge-sharing platform that extends beyond Islamic doctrine to foster universal good for all communities.
“RISEAP is not only subject to Islamic doctrine, but it shares knowledge between Muslims and non-Muslims for the sake of humanity. That is our way and it benefits everyone,” he remarked in an interview.
He highlighted that this collaborative approach includes partnerships in technology and culture with strategic partner nations.
The state government is already collaborating with entities like Samsung in the field of green energy and is looking to New Zealand for expertise in agricultural technology.
The Korea Muslim Federation serves as the primary Islamic organisation in South Korea, overseeing religious affairs, promoting the halal industry, and providing community education. Its work is crucial for a community that represents a small but growing minority in the country.
This financial support from Sarawak underscores the state’s active foreign policy approach, which seeks to build international goodwill and promote religious inclusivity.
It also highlights Sarawak’s growing role as a participant in global Islamic discourse and community support.
