MIRI – Three churches in Miri have received a combined RM450,000 allocation from the Sarawak Government through the Unit for Other Religions (UNIFOR), aimed at strengthening facilities and ensuring safe, comfortable worship environments for their congregations.
The handover ceremony was officiated by Deputy Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts (Tourism) and Piasau Assemblyman Datuk Sebastian Ting Chiew Yew during visits to BEM Kairos, St Joseph Cathedral Miri, and the Methodist Iban Church of Miri City on Monday morning.
The allocations were distributed as follows:
- BEM Kairos: RM100,000 to upgrade its PA system and mechanical equipment.
- St Joseph Cathedral Miri: RM200,000 for full electrical rewiring and ceiling replacement.
- Methodist Iban Church of Miri City: RM150,000 to enhance its prayer hall, including LED displays, improved PA system, new seating, and a divider for instrumentation.
Datuk Sebastian Ting reminded all recipient churches to deposit the cheques promptly, noting that they are valid for three months.
He also emphasised the importance of responsible utilisation and proper reporting to ensure transparency in the use of public funds.
He further encouraged churches to apply for additional support if required, depending on the utilisation of current allocations.
“If the UNIFOR allocation is still insufficient, they may apply again for additional funding next year,” he said.
The initiative reflects the Sarawak Government’s ongoing commitment to supporting religious institutions across the state.
UNIFOR, established in 2017, has consistently provided funding to houses of worship of various faiths, reinforcing the state’s emphasis on inclusivity and interfaith harmony.
Local leaders have welcomed the grants, noting that improved facilities will not only enhance worship experiences but also strengthen community ties.
The support is seen as part of broader efforts to ensure that religious institutions remain safe, functional, and accessible to all.
The latest disbursement in Miri adds to a series of allocations across Sarawak, underscoring the government’s pledge to maintain equitable support for diverse religious communities.
