(Kuching, 28th) The Deputy Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Amar Dr. Sim Kui Hian, emphasized that the government is committed to keeping its promises and will continue to assist local religious sites with improvements, upgrades, and construction through various means.
He stated that the Sarawak government has always been committed to ensuring harmony among the people of different ethnicities and the free development of religions.
As the Batu Kawah area councilor, he made these remarks today when providing funds to 20 temples and welfare charity organizations in the Batu Kawah constituency for activity and welfare expenses.
He mentioned that Sarawak is very different from other regions in Malaysia. In addition to assisting temple construction through other religious units (UNIFOR), the government also provides grants through councilors to help temples maintain annual activity expenses.
“The government supports religious or worship sites in hosting events that contribute to community and ethnic harmony, which includes preserving the religious culture of the respective ethnic groups. This is why the government allocates funds every year to assist these groups, particularly knowing that some temple welfare and charity organizations need extra funds for year-end expenses.”
The beneficiaries include the Wei Yuan Port Ci Yun Devotees Association, Jia Gong Shun Li Gong, Jia Gong Yong Xing Gong, Shang Wan Tou Xian Sheng Gong, Chang Ping Mountain, Jian Mountain Yi Wen Gong, Batu Kawah Tian Shi Ye, Ying Yuan Dian, Siri Jide Temple, Jin Zhu Sheng Yong Wen Gong, Luo Zhi Port Wu Xian Da Di, Xin Shan Du Zhen Jun Di, Xia Sha Long Wen Hua Gong, Lushan Temple, Virtuous Sect Zi Qian pavilion, Feng Huo Institute, Fo Bao Palace, Luo Zhi Port Fa Zhu Temple, Nan Hua Palace, and Batu Kawah Old Street Committee.