KUCHING: The Sri Maha Mariamman Temple has received an additional RM900,000 from UNIFOR for facilities rebuilding, alongside RM2.3 million approved for the construction of a new multipurpose hall and road access to the temple.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, who is also the Minister-In-Charge for the Unit for Other Religions (UNIFOR), said the Sarawak government remains firmly committed to strengthening UNIFOR for the benefit of future generations.
“To date, UNIFOR has supported the Sri Maha Mariamman Temple Association with a contribution of RM900,000 as additional fund for purpose of facilities rebuild.
“And we are pleased to note that Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has also approved an additional RM2.3 Million for the construction of the new Multipurpose Hall and road access to the temple under the Projek Rakyat allocation.
“These contributions demonstrate the government’s continuous commitment to supporting all houses of worship, regardless of religion and we believe that nurturing faith-based communities is essential in maintaining peace, strengthening social bonds, and preserving Sarawak’s legacy of unity,” he said.
He wss speaking at the Sarawak Shines: Diwali the Sarawak Way Diwali state-level celebration at Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) yesterday (Nov 17).
The celebration, organised by the Sri Maha Mariamman Temple Kuching in collaboration with UNIFOR, was attended by Head of State Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar and his wife Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah Mohd Sanusi.
Uggah expressed appreciation to Wan Junaidi and his wife for their presence, describing his warmth, humility and willingness to engage with all religious groups as a reflection of compassionate and inclusive leadership.
“We have seen how Tun has become a bridge between races and religions, strengthening trust and understanding among Sarawakians,” he said.
He added that the celebration, is more than just a festive gathering, calling it is a symbol of unity, a reflection of what makes Sarawak unique.
“As we celebrate Diwali, the Festival of Light, we are reminded that light triumphs over darkness, and unity triumphs over division.
“May this symbolic message continue to inspire us in building a future rooted in mutual respect,” he added.
