Sarawak's leader says the state is boosting funding for all religions, using strong local revenue. Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg talked about this at the opening of the new Sri Aman Islamic Complex. That building was paid for mostly by Muslim tithe money, which he called a social duty for prosperous people and businesses. He credited a growing understanding of this system for strengthening the Baitulmal Sarawak Fund, the Islamic treasury managing these donations since the eighties.
At the same time, he highlighted the Unit for Other Religions, known as Unifor. He stated that Sarawak is the only state with a government body specifically for non-Muslim groups and mission schools. Its annual budget is going up next year, from one hundred million to one hundred twenty million ringgit. That money helps various religious organizations and Chinese schools, while also recognizing the UEC qualification. The premier said this two-track method lets them build religious infrastructure and support every faith community fairly.
At the same time, he highlighted the Unit for Other Religions, known as Unifor. He stated that Sarawak is the only state with a government body specifically for non-Muslim groups and mission schools. Its annual budget is going up next year, from one hundred million to one hundred twenty million ringgit. That money helps various religious organizations and Chinese schools, while also recognizing the UEC qualification. The premier said this two-track method lets them build religious infrastructure and support every faith community fairly.
