KUCHING – The Sarawak government has called on recipients of house of worship allocations to submit project progress reports promptly, stressing that accountability and transparency are vital to ensure the success of funded initiatives.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, who oversees the Other Religious Affairs Unit (UNIFOR), revealed that 154 projects have yet to provide updates on the use of their allocations. He explained that the submission of reports is a key requirement under government policy.
“If the allocation for that year has not been spent, we will not consider providing allocations next year. The same applies to projects that fail to submit reports because this involves accountability and governance,” he told reporters after the UNIFOR Phase 3 Cheque Handover Ceremony 2025 at Wisma Bapa Malaysia.
Earlier in his speech, Datuk Amar Douglas emphasised that reports are essential for monitoring progress and ensuring compliance with government audit procedures. “The audit wants to know the progress of the project, what has happened, and who benefits. If representatives can ensure that recipients submit reports quickly, it will greatly assist us,” he said.
He also highlighted UNIFOR’s continued collaboration with the Public Works Department (JKR), which involves quantity surveyors to assess the cost of each house of worship project. This professional evaluation, he noted, ensures that projects are implemented in a structured and transparent manner.
Datuk Amar Douglas further reminded recipients about issues involving expired aid cheques, which occurred when funds were not delivered promptly. He stressed the importance of early distribution to accelerate project implementation on the ground.
During the ceremony, UNIFOR distributed RM40.5 million to 51 representatives for the reconstruction and repair of 138 houses of worship across Sarawak. The allocations are part of the state’s ongoing commitment to supporting religious institutions and ensuring that funds are used effectively.
The event was attended by several senior leaders, including Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Professor Dr. Sim Kui Hian, Minister of Transport Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin, Minister in the Premier’s Department Dato Sri John Sikie Tayai, Deputy Minister of Health Dato Lukanisman Awang Sauni, Deputy Minister of Transport (Air & Road) Datuk Dr. Jerip Susil, and UNIFOR Director Dato Georgina Apphia Ngau.
Observers note that Sarawak’s insistence on timely reporting reflects its broader governance agenda, ensuring that public funds are managed responsibly, and that projects deliver tangible benefits to communities across the state.
