Kota Sentosa schools, churches receive over RM1.23 mln in Unifor, MRP grants

KUCHING (Dec 12): Kota Sentosa assemblyman Wilfred Yap has presented over RM1.23 million in grants under the Unit for Other Religions (Unifor) and Minor Rural Project (MRP) funds to support education, community facilities, religious institutions and youth development programmes in his constituency.

At SK St Alban here Thursday, Yap handed over two Unifor cheques totalling RM780,000 for major infrastructure upgrades. Anglican Bishop Datuk Danald Jute witnessed the presentation.

Of the total, RM400,000 will be used to upgrade Block B, the pre-school building, and the school’s open hall cum covered court, while RM380,000 is allocated for improvements to the library, parking area, and classroom block.

“These allocations reflect the Sarawak government’s strong commitment to ensuring students in Kota Sentosa learn in safe, comfortable, and conducive environments,” said Yap, who is Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP) Kota Sentosa branch chairman.

“Education development is the foundation for community progress. We want every child in Kota Sentosa to have the best possible environment to learn and grow.”

He also thanked the school management and the Anglican Church for their cooperation in facilitating project implementation.

On Wednesday, Yap officiated at a Christmas event at SJK Sam Hap Hin, presenting additional grants to support mission and vernacular schools as well as community organisations.

The school received a RM140,000 Unifor grant via its Board chairman Stephen Kong, for upgrading the parking area, furniture and electrical equipment procurement, ICT tools, and termite prevention works.

Highlighting the government’s inclusive approach, Yap noted that Unifor’s support extends to mission and vernacular schools regardless of background.

He also presented a RM300,000 Unifor to Sacred Heart Church, Kota Sentosa, received by Father Felix Au for the construction of a new bell tower.

Roman Catholic Archbishop Datuk Simon Poh, who witnessed the event, praised Unifor’s role in strengthening interfaith harmony across Sarawak.

To support youth development, Yap handed over a RM10,000 MRP grant to Poh for the Boys’ Brigade programmes, which foster discipline, character building, and community service.

“These contributions underscore the Sarawak government’s ongoing commitment to inclusivity, community harmony, and equal support for all religious, educational, and youth institutions,” Yap said.

“Sarawak’s strength lies in our unity and our ability to support one another regardless of race or religion. These grants are part of our continuous effort to ensure no community is left behind.”

The ceremonies also featured Christmas performances by students, reflecting the spirit of togetherness that characterises Sarawak’s multicultural society.