SIBU: Religious communities in Sarawak have contributed not only to the spiritual development of society but also to education, welfare, humanitarian assistance and community building, said Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
He said these contributions truly reflected the spirit of Segulai Sejalai — moving forward together, supporting one another and building an inclusive, sustainable and blessed future for all Sarawakians.
“Although we profess different faiths and traditions, every religion shares universal values — love, compassion, justice, tolerance and mutual respect. These shared values remain the foundation of our peaceful and harmonious society,” he said at the Thanksgiving Ceremony of Other Religions, held in conjunction with the Sarawak Day Celebration 2026 here last tonight (July 20).
The Premier’s speech was read out by his representative, Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian.
Abang Johari said religious institutions were far more than places of worship.
“They serve as centres of education, welfare, humanitarian service and moral guidance. The strength of Sarawak lies not only in its robust economy but also in the deeply rooted moral foundation of its people,” he said.
He added that since the establishment of the Unit for Other Religions (UNIFOR), the Sarawak government had remained steadfast in ensuring that every religion received equal respect, recognition and support.
“This is not merely a government policy but a reflection of who we are as Sarawakians,” he said.
Abang Johari pointed out that, to date, the Sarawak government had approved a total allocation of RM685 million through UNIFOR. Of this amount, RM565 million had been channelled towards the construction, upgrading and maintenance of hundreds of non-Muslim places of worship throughout Sarawak, while RM120 million had been allocated to mission schools, which have played an invaluable role in educating generations of Sarawakians.
For 2026 alone, he said the state had allocated RM120 million to UNIFOR. This includes RM20 million specifically for mission schools, with an additional RM10 million dedicated to Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) initiatives.
“This investment reflects our belief that the future of Sarawak begins with quality education. We want our young people not merely to become consumers of technology, but creators, innovators and future leaders capable of driving a knowledge-based economy.
“That is the commitment of the Sarawak government — to build a society that is economically strong, morally grounded and rich in opportunities for every Sarawakian, regardless of religion or background.”
On behalf of the state government, he also expressed his appreciation to the Christian, Buddhist, Taoist, Hindu, Sikh and Bahá’í communities for their unwavering contributions to strengthening social harmony and developing the people of Sarawak.
