Religious tolerance crucial for Sarawak’s progress, says Sagah

KOTA SAMARAHAN (Sept 6): Sarawak recognises that religious tolerance is crucial for the state’s progress, said Dato Sri Roland Sagah Wee Inn.

The Education, Innovation and Talent Development Minister said this is why Sarawak is the only state in Malaysia to hold interfaith events such as thanksgiving ceremonies.

He also pointed out the establishment of the Unit for Other Religions (Unifor).

“Unifor ensures that all non-Islamic faiths in Sarawak receive appropriate support from the state government under the leadership of Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.

“Under Abang Johari’s inclusive leadership, the government provides annual grants to all major religions in Sarawak, including Christianity, Buddhism, Taoism, Baha’i, Sikhism, and Hinduism. It is a commitment to inclusivity,” he said at the Other Religions Thanksgiving Ceremony at the Kota Samarahan Civic Centre here last night.

The ceremony was part of the Sarawak-level Yang Di-Pertuan Agong’s birthday celebration.

Since Unifor’s inception in 2017, Sagah said 778 projects to build facilities for other religions in Sarawak have been completed with a total allocation of RM100.4 million.

“An additional 623 projects, valued at RM148.9 million, are currently underway, covering construction, maintenance, repairs, and the procurement of religious items for various houses of worship,” he said.

On the interreligious event organised by Unifor, he noted that it once again highlighted Sarawak’s harmonious coexistence through a culturally unique occasion, demonstrating the deep respect and understanding shared among people of various religious and spiritual beliefs.

“We hope His Majesty’s government continues to be blessed, bringing prosperity and success to all, regardless of race, culture, or religion,” he said.

Sagah also called on religious leaders to continue promoting unity, peace, and tolerance to future generations, ensuring Sarawak’s multicultural society thrives.

Among those present were Transport Deputy Minister Datuk Dr Jerip Susil; Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Labour, Immigration and Project Monitoring) Datuk Gerawat Gala; Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development Deputy Minister Datuk Martin Ben; Deputy State Secretary (Administration) Datu Buckland Bangik; Unifor Director Datuk Georgina Apphia Ngau; and Association of Churches in Sarawak chairman Rt Rev Datuk Danald Jute, who led the opening prayer.