Fifteen RIBI receive allocation to upgrade and maintain their establishments

11 July 2025

KOTA KINABALU: The federal government has allocated RM50 million this year to support the maintenance and upgrade of non-Islamic places of worship (RIBI) across the country, with a particular focus on fifteen organisations in Sabah. These fifteen RIBI organisations have received targeted allocations to help preserve and improve their premises, reflecting the government’s commitment to supporting religious diversity and harmony.

This substantial funding highlights the government’s dedication to fostering a tolerant society by ensuring that temples, churches, and similar sites remain well-maintained, safe, and welcoming for all worshippers. The allocations are part of a broader initiative to strengthen community bonds and uphold Malaysia’s rich multi-faith heritage.

Housing and Local Government Minister, Nga Kor Ming, explained that this initiative, introduced under the 2025 Budget, aims to provide specific assistance to RIBI organisations, helping them safeguard their cultural and religious heritage.

Speaking at a grant presentation ceremony at the Basel Christian Church of Malaysia in Petagas, Nga announced that as of 7 July, RM2.7 million had been allocated to fifteen RIBI organisations in Sabah. Several other applications are currently under review, with further allocations expected in due course.

The establishments awarded allocations today include Persatuan Penganut Dewa Seng Ong Kong in Keningau, which received RM110,400; Basel Christian Church of Malaysia in Petagas, which received RM163,760; and Seventh-day Adventist Church in Minangkob, which received RM121,663.

Other recipients are Lighthouse Church (Baptist) in Kg Lajong (RM139,960); SDA Church in Kg Batition (RM153,518); Basel Christian Church in Tamparuli (RM176,775); Basel Christian Church in Tenom (RM227,954); Grace Chapel in Kota Kinabalu (RM193,596); Basel Christian Church in Inanam (RM184,608); SIB Baru Jumpa (RM246,992); SIB Kalamatoi (RM193,596); SIB Pekan Tenom (RM246,832); Penganut Dewa Jen Foo Chung An Hui in Papar (RM241,000); Persatuan I-Kuan Tao Hung Tsung Ren Sou in Penampang (RM151,600); and St Michael Church in Penampang, which received RM186,690.

“I understand that some applications are still being processed, and I am optimistic that more organisations will benefit soon,” said the minister.

Nga also noted that last year, the ministry approved RM4.81 million for thirty-five RIBI organisations nationwide, reaffirming the ongoing support of the government for these communities.

He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to maintaining Malaysia’s multi-faith society, assuring that the distribution of funds would be carried out professionally, efficiently, and transparently.

“We want to ensure that the funds are distributed fairly and that no one is left behind,” he stated.