Unifor allocates RM20 mln to enhance mission schools across Sarawak

KUCHING (Aug 19) The Unit for Other Religions (Unifor) under the Premier’s Department has allocated RM20 million to 120 mission schools across Sarawak this year.

Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas said this funding is intended for construction of new buildings or renovation of the existing structures, and the purchase of new furniture as well as information technology and sports equipment.

“We hope that with the new buildings and upgrades, and better and more complete facilities, our students will enjoy a more condusive studying atmosphere,” he said at the handover of cheques to the advisors of the various religious authorities today.

Uggah, who is the minister in-charge of Unifor, said these advisors will hand over the cheques to the respective elected representatives for distribution to the schools.

He described the fund as a big help to these schools from the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) government.

He said the recipient schools are expected to adhere to the financial regulations in spending based on the scope of their applications.

“They are to submit to Unifor the progress reports of their projects twice a year and in the months of March and September, until the projects are completed and the grants fully spent,” he added.

Breaking down the allocation, Uggah said 44 schools under the Anglican Diocese of Kuching received a total of RM7,874,040, while 32 schools under the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Kuching. were given RM5,039,360.

Additionally, he said 23 schools the Roman Catholic of the Sibu Diocese received a total of RM3,622,040, while seven schools under the Roman Catholic Church of Miri Diocese received RM1,102,360.

Eight schools under the Methodist, Sarawak Iban Annual Conference (SIAC) received RM1,259,840, while six schools under the Methodist, Sarawak Chinese Annual Conference (SCAC) were given RM1,102,360, he added.

Among those present was Unifor director Datu Georgina Apphia Ngau.