KUCHING: The Sarawak government has reaffirmed its strong commitment to religious inclusivity and harmony, channelling continuous support to the Christian community and houses of worship across the state.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian said the state administration, under Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg’s leadership, consistently backs the development of all places of worship, recognising their role in strengthening unity and social well-being.
“Houses of worship are not merely buildings, but hubs for cultivating values, unity, and community well-being. This is the true strength of Sarawak,” he said.
He was speaking at a pre-Christmas dinner organised by the Unit for Other Religions (UNIFOR), here on Wednesday (Dec 10).
The event was also attended by the Head of State Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, and his wife Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah Mohd Sanusi.
Dr Sim also said that Christians formed the largest religious group in Sarawak, with over 1.2 million followers and more than 2,300 churches across various denominations — reflecting the state’s rich diversity.
From 2017 to 2025, Dr Sim said the state government approved hundreds of millions of ringgit through various funds, including UNIFOR, to support religious development, benefitting the Christian community through thousands of improvement projects.
He also highlighted the significant contributions of churches and Christian missionaries in shaping Sarawak’s education landscape through missionary schools.
“Missionary schools not only impart knowledge but also instill discipline, human values and leadership. In fact, the majority of Sarawak’s leaders today are products of this educational system,” he said.
He added that between 2021 and 2025, a total of 129 missionary schools received RM19 million in state assistance for more than 650 infrastructure upgrades.
