MIRI: A total of RM385 million from state funds have been allocated through the Unit for Other Religions (UNIFOR) since 2017 to support the construction and rehabilitation of hundreds of houses of worship statewide.
This initiative has enhanced the comfort and appeal of these worship spaces, benefiting worshippers across Sarawak.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said Sarawak stands out as the only state in Malaysia that provides structured financial assistance to religious groups beyond Islam.
“This is our way of walking the talk on social inclusiveness. We don’t just speak about it; we make it happen,” he said in a text speech read out by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas during Miri’s 15th Christmas Parade here last night.
He noted that the funding also supports the operation of mission schools, easing the financial burden on religious bodies managing these institutions.
“UNIFOR reflects our commitment to creating a socially inclusive society where everyone has equal opportunities to enjoy the fruits of freedom and prosperity, in line with the three pillars of the Post-COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030),” he added.
Themed ‘Jesus Christ, the Life and the Light of All People’, this year’s parade, hosted by the Anglican Church, drew more than 40,000 participants from 18 churches.
The vibrant procession wove its way through Miri’s major streets, including Jalan Sylvia, Jalan Brooke, Jalan Kingsway, and Jalan North Yu Seng, before returning to Miri City Fan.
The event featured Christmas carols, street performances, and a strong display of community spirit. Financial contribution of RM120,000 was also pledged to support the parade.
The parade saw the presence of key figures, including Minister of Transport Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin, Deputy Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts Datuk Sebastian Ting Chiew Yew, Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Labour, Immigration and Project Monitoring) Datuk Gerawat Gala, Deputy Minister of Health Datuk Lukanisman Awang Sauni and UNIFOR director Datuk Georgina Apphia Ngau.
Miri Mayor Adam Yii Siew Sang, Bishop of the Anglican Church in Sarawak and Brunei, the Rt Revd Datuk Danald Jute, and Miri City Christmas Parade 2024 co-chairman Reverend Johny Janggok also attended the celebration.
