LIMBANG: The establishment of the Unit For Other Religions (UNIFOR) in 2017 is a clear reflection of the state government’s commitment in ensuring social inclusivity, unity, and the well-being of all Sarawakians, irrespective of race or religion.
Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said UNIFOR has channelled a total of RM475 million in aid to houses of worship across Sarawak, including Buddhist, Christian, Taoist, Baha’i, Sikh, and Hindu houses of worship, based on the principle of social inclusivity.
“This also includes funds for projects involving new constructions, repairs, renovations and maintenance, as well as the procurement of equipment and religious items for the respective houses of worship.
“Additionally, UNIFOR has disbursed RM90 million in funding to missionary schools across Sarawak since 2021. This means that a total of RM565 million has been allocated to UNIFOR by the Sarawak Government.
“These financial grants to the houses of worship and missionary schools reflect the Sarawak Government’s unwavering dedication to promote social inclusivity, while also ensuring that their buildings remain safe and comfortable for use.”
He said this in his text of speech read by Deputy Premier, Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas during a Thanksgiving Ceremony in conjunction with the 2025 Sarawak-Level Yang di-Pertuan Agong’s Official Birthday Celebration, here today.
Abang Johari also said that since this year, UNIFOR has partnered with quantity surveyors from the Sarawak Public Works Department (PWD) to strengthen the unit’s technical expertise in evaluating grant applications.
He said this focuses on verifying the requested grant amounts against the proposed project scopes.
“This initiative ensures that all grant applications are transparent, reasonable and aligned with the actual needs of the houses of worship,” he added.
