KUCHING: Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian has praised temple management committees in Batu Kawa for their dedication in preserving cultural heritage, fostering social cohesion and strengthening community ties.
In recognition of such efforts he distributed state government grants over the past two days to numerous temples in the constituency of which he is assemblyman.
“The many temples in Batu Kawa are not only important cultural and heritage sites for the Chinese community but also serve as gathering places for the local community,” he said in a statement on Monday (June 15).
Dr Sim said temple committees regularly organise deity birthday celebrations, Hungry Ghost Festival offerings, charitable programmes and management meetings that help preserve ethnic harmony and promote neighbourliness.
According to him, such initiatives play a significant role in strengthening unity among communities and ensuring traditional customs and cultural practices continue to thrive across generations.
The grants distributed by the state government are intended to support temple activities and assist committees in covering operational expenses associated with managing their respective religious institutions.
“For major repair works, temple committees may apply for additional funding from the Unit for Other Religions (Unifor),” he said, adding that applications generally receive approval when all requirements are fulfilled.
Dr Sim noted that ownership of temple land by the committee is among the key criteria considered when assessing applications for substantial repair, upgrading or expansion projects.
He cited Persatuan Penganut Dewa Wu Xuan Dai Di as an example, saying the organisation received more than RM2 million from Unifor and completed its development project.
“The recent expansion of the Batu Kawa Tian Sze Ja Temple Association and many other projects also received support from Unifor,” he added.
Dr Sim said Sarawak continues to benefit from strong cooperation and mutual respect among its diverse communities, allowing the government to focus on economic growth and development.
“As Sarawakians, we must continue to safeguard our tradition of moderation, respect and inclusiveness. We must never allow racial or religious extremism to divide us,” he said, reaffirming the state government’s commitment to religious freedom and nation-building.
