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KUCHING, Sept 14: The Unit for the Affairs of Other Religions (UNIFOR) is not just a financial aid channel but reflects the approach of the Sarawak Government in strengthening communities and ensuring all religions are given space to thrive.
Sarawak Prime Minister, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said that the values of mutual respect and inclusion should be translated through action and governance, not just slogans.
"Values of mutual respect and commitment cannot be just slogans. These values must be translated into governance", he said.
He said this through the text of a speech read by Deputy Prime Minister Sarawak, Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embassy at the Other Religions' Thanksgiving Council in conjunction with the National Level Malaysia Day 2026 celebration here tonight.
According to him, on this principle, UNIFOR was established by the Government of Sarawak in 2017 to ensure that other religious communities are also respected, given space for development and can contribute to the state's development.
To date, the Government of Sarawak has approved a total of RM685 million through UNIFOR, including RM565 million for construction, maintenance and upgrading of other religious houses of worship as well as RM120 million for continuous development of missionary schools.
It is clear from Johari's point of view that the allocations are not only related to physical development, but also to community strengthening in Sarawak.
"This provision is not just about buildings. It's an investment in the community", he said.
At the same time, he also emphasized that houses of worship are not just places of worship, but a space for shaping the society, educating younger generations, carrying out charitable activities and strengthening relationships within the community.
In addition, as the institutions of society are strengthened, Sarawak also strengthens social capital which is among the important foundations for state development. - TVS
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