KUCHING: A total of RM4.627 million has been allocated to benefit 1,688 mosques, surau and Islamic cemeteries across Sarawak.
Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Project Coordinator for Regional Development Agencies, Kuching North City Commission and Islamic Affairs) Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi said the allocation reflects the continuation of the Sarawak government’s policies and commitment to strengthening mosque institutions as pillars of Islamic community development in Sarawak.
“As emphasised by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg the Sarawak government consistently places serious attention on ensuring that mosques and surau are conducive, well-maintained, and accessible.
“This vision and aspiration align with Sarawak’s balanced and inclusive development goals, as outlined in the Post-Covid-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030), which emphasises harmony between physical development, economic progress, and core societal values,” he said.
He said this in his speech when officiating at the Sarawak Islamic Council Contributions to Mosques, Surau and Islamic Burial Grounds presentation ceremony at Dewan Kompleks Islam Sarawak today.
He added that the distribution of this contribution is not merely symbolic, but is carried out based on a clear mandate of trust and a well-defined legal framework.
“It is in line with Section 46 of the Sarawak Islamic Council Ordinance 2001, which provides that Baitulmal funds are to be used for the establishment and maintenance of places of worship and Muslim cemeterie.
“With that the total contribution of RM4,627,000 approved by the Sarawak Islamic Council will benefit 1,688 mosques, surau and Islamic cemeteries across the state, divided into eight categories of recipients,” he added.
Under the distribution framework, Grade 1 or divisional mosques will receive RM1,000, while Grade 2 district mosques are allocated RM2,000.
“Grade 3 mosques in smaller districts will receive RM3,000, and Grade 4 mosques, including public or community mosques, are allocated RM5,000.
“Non-scheme mosques or surau, which include public mosques, will receive RM3,000, while mosques and surau located within premises are allocated RM1,000.
“For Islamic cemeteries, those managed under the Village Development and Security Committee (JKTP) will receive RM3,000, while cemeteries under charitable trust boards (Lembaga Amanah Khairat) will receive RM1,000,” he said.
