MIRI – The Unit for Other Religions (UNIFOR) has channelled RM580,000 to support the maintenance and upgrading of facilities at SMK St. Columba Miri and SK St. Columba Miri, reinforcing Sarawak’s commitment to improving education infrastructure.
The cheque presentation was officiated by Deputy Minister of Tourism, Creative Industries and Performing Arts Sarawak, Datuk Sebastian Ting Chiew Yew, who is also the Piasau Assemblyman.
The allocation saw RM400,000 directed to SMK St. Columba and RM180,000 to SK St. Columba, ensuring both schools can address pressing facility needs.
Datuk Sebastian highlighted that many of the school buildings are decades old and require substantial investment to remain safe and conducive for learning.
“Most of the school structures are decades old and require a large financial allocation to ensure the safety and comfort of students and teachers,” he said during the ceremony at SMK St. Columba, which also marked the opening of a new Hall LED screen under the Rural Transformation Project (RTP).
He emphasised that the Sarawak government, through UNIFOR, remains committed to working closely with schools to maintain a supportive learning environment.
He added that strengthening education development is central to building an inclusive society, regardless of race or religion.
The funding forms part of UNIFOR’s broader initiative to assist mission schools across Sarawak. In 2025, the state government allocated RM20 million to 126 mission schools for 155 projects, ensuring that institutions under missionary management continue to receive support. This reflects Sarawak’s wider policy of promoting religious coexistence and educational inclusivity.
School representatives expressed gratitude for the assistance, noting that the funds will be used prudently to benefit students in the long term.
They stressed that the support is vital for upgrading facilities and ensuring a safe environment for both teachers and pupils.
SMK St. Columba, established in 1929, is one of Miri’s oldest schools and has long been recognised for its role in community education.
The latest allocation will help sustain its legacy while addressing modern infrastructure needs. SK St. Columba, meanwhile, has also received previous funding for hall upgrades and toilet improvementssarawaktribune.com, underscoring the ongoing support for both institutions.
The ceremony not only marked the disbursement of funds but also reinforced cooperation between the state government and local schools.
By investing in education infrastructure, Sarawak aims to ensure that future generations benefit from safe, inclusive, and high-quality learning environments.
