SRI AMAN – The Sarawak Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg, has reaffirmed that the state’s governance is guided by the principles of the Madinah Charter, emphasising fairness and inclusivity across all communities.
Speaking at the inauguration of the Sri Aman Islamic Complex, the Premier explained that the charter’s values of justice and equality underpin Sarawak’s administrative framework.
He noted that these principles are essential for sustaining harmony and prosperity in a diverse society.
The Premier underscored that Sarawak’s policies are designed to serve both Muslim and non-Muslim communities. For Muslims, the newly opened Islamic Complex will act as a hub for religious, social, and administrative activities.
For non-Muslims, the state has established the Unit for Other Religious Affairs (UNIFOR), which has received increased funding in recent years to support houses of worship and mission schools.
In 2026, UNIFOR’s allocation will rise to RM120 million, reflecting Sarawak’s commitment to interfaith cooperation.
“We have established a government that upholds justice for all, regardless of religion, whether Muslim or non-Muslim,” he said. “For the Muslim community, we have the Sarawak Islamic Complex.
Meanwhile, for the non-Muslim community, we also have UNIFOR, making Sarawak among the earliest states and the only state to have this initiative.”
The Premier explained that the inspiration for this approach stems from the governance model of Prophet Muhammad in Medina, which promoted fairness among different religious groups.
“If we want to take inspiration from the way he ruled Medina among the Muslim and non-Muslim communities, then the way is with justice. As your leader, I am fair to all communities, both Muslim and non-Muslim,” he added.
Beyond religious inclusivity, the Premier also announced new infrastructure projects for Sri Aman. Plans include the construction of a waterfront and the replacement of a deteriorating road linking Lingga village, which he described as unsafe for daily use.
These initiatives, he stressed, are part of the government’s effort to reinvest state revenue back into the people’s welfare.
“I want to give back what we get from Sarawak’s revenue, and we will return that revenue to the people,” he concluded.
The Sri Aman Islamic Complex, built on a 6.37-acre site, has been hailed as a landmark for Islamic development and a centre for government services in the division.
Its opening was attended by both Muslim and non-Muslim communities, reflecting Sarawak’s broader vision of unity and inclusivity.
Observers note that Sarawak’s dual approach supporting Islamic institutions while strengthening UNIFOR sets the state apart in Malaysia, where few regions have formalised structures for non-Muslim religious affairs.
With robust state revenue, the government has been able to expand allocations for interfaith initiatives, reinforcing its reputation for tolerance and pluralism.
The Premier’s remarks in Sri Aman highlight Sarawak’s ongoing effort to balance cultural diversity with economic development, ensuring that growth is shared across all communities.
