(Kuching, 18th) The Sarawak Sri Maha Mariamman Temple has received an additional RM900,000 in funding from UNIFOR (Unit for Other Religions) for the reconstruction of its facilities; previously, the government had already approved RM2.3 million for the construction of a new multi-purpose hall and road works leading to the temple.
Sarawak Deputy Premier and Head of the Religious Affairs Unit (UNIFOR), Datuk Amar Douglas, stated that the Sarawak government firmly supports UNIFOR for the benefit of future generations.
He said: "So far, UNIFOR has provided an additional RM900,000 to the Sri Maha Mariamman Temple association for facility reconstruction.
"At the same time, we are pleased to learn that Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari has also approved an additional RM2.3 million allocation for the construction of a new multi-purpose hall and the temple's access road under the 'Projek Rakyat' (People's Project) scheme."
He emphasized that these funds reflect the government's ongoing commitment to support all places of worship, regardless of religious faith, and stated that nurturing faith communities is crucial for maintaining peace, strengthening social bonds, and carrying forward Sarawak’s legacy of unity.
Douglas made these remarks at yesterday's (November 17) state-level Diwali celebration "Sarawak Shines: Diwali the Sarawak Way" held at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK).
This celebration was jointly organized by the Sri Maha Mariamman Temple Kuching and UNIFOR, and was attended by Sarawak Head of State Tun Pehin Sri Wan Junaidi and the First Lady Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Faziah.
Douglas expressed his gratitude for the attendance of the Head of State and his spouse, and praised the Head of State for his approachability, humility, and willingness to interact with various religious communities—demonstrating empathetic and inclusive leadership.
He said: "We have seen how the Head of State acts as a bridge among different ethnicities and religions, strengthening trust and understanding among Sarawakians."
He further noted that this celebration was not only a festive gathering but also a symbol of unity, showcasing the uniqueness of Sarawak.
"As we celebrate Diwali, we are reminded: light triumphs over darkness, and unity prevails over division. May this symbolic message continue to inspire us, as we build a better future together based on mutual respect."
Sarawak Deputy Premier and Head of the Religious Affairs Unit (UNIFOR), Datuk Amar Douglas, stated that the Sarawak government firmly supports UNIFOR for the benefit of future generations.
He said: "So far, UNIFOR has provided an additional RM900,000 to the Sri Maha Mariamman Temple association for facility reconstruction.
"At the same time, we are pleased to learn that Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari has also approved an additional RM2.3 million allocation for the construction of a new multi-purpose hall and the temple's access road under the 'Projek Rakyat' (People's Project) scheme."
Douglas made these remarks at yesterday's (November 17) state-level Diwali celebration "Sarawak Shines: Diwali the Sarawak Way" held at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK).
This celebration was jointly organized by the Sri Maha Mariamman Temple Kuching and UNIFOR, and was attended by Sarawak Head of State Tun Pehin Sri Wan Junaidi and the First Lady Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Faziah.
Douglas expressed his gratitude for the attendance of the Head of State and his spouse, and praised the Head of State for his approachability, humility, and willingness to interact with various religious communities—demonstrating empathetic and inclusive leadership.
He said: "We have seen how the Head of State acts as a bridge among different ethnicities and religions, strengthening trust and understanding among Sarawakians."
He further noted that this celebration was not only a festive gathering but also a symbol of unity, showcasing the uniqueness of Sarawak.
"As we celebrate Diwali, we are reminded: light triumphs over darkness, and unity prevails over division. May this symbolic message continue to inspire us, as we build a better future together based on mutual respect."