Increase in Allocation for Non-Islamic Religious Bodies Reflects Sabah Government’s Commitment to Diversity

1 February 2026

KOTA KINABALU: The increase in funding allocated to non-Islamic religious bodies in Sabah demonstrates the State Government’s strong commitment to religious diversity.

Deputy Chief Minister III and Sabah Minister of Industrial Development, Entrepreneurship and Transport, Datuk Ewon Benedick, said the higher allocation also reflects the seriousness of the state government under the leadership of Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Noor in addressing the development needs of all religious communities in Sabah in an inclusive and equitable manner.

“The allocation for non-Islamic religious bodies, which has been increased to RM90 million, is a clear manifestation of the Sabah Government’s commitment to ensuring that the development and welfare needs of followers of all religions are given due attention,” he said.

He was speaking to reporters after attending the Thaipusam celebration at the Sri Subramaniar Temple in Lokawi here today.

Ewon, who is also the Member of Parliament for Penampang, said respect for religious and cultural celebrations observed by Malaysia’s diverse communities is a fundamental pillar in safeguarding the Malaysian Federation, particularly in Sabah, which has long been a model of tolerance and unity.

“I am confident that by respecting this diversity, we can strengthen national unity and continue to preserve harmony in our multi-racial and multi-religious society.

“This, I believe, is the true expression of Malaysia’s ethnic and cultural diversity, especially in Sabah,” he said.

Ewon added that as a Christian, he regularly attends weekly services at churches within the constituencies he represents, either in Penampang or Kadamaian, and takes the opportunity to listen to the needs of the local community.

“This morning, I was in Kampung Sugud not only to attend weekly worship, but also to hear the needs of the church.

“The church representatives informed Datuk Donald Peter Mojuntin (Moyog State Assemblyman) and me of the need to expand the church premises,” he said.

As the Member of Parliament for Penampang, Ewon said he had channelled RM150,000 in funding to the church to construct a concrete parking area.

“Today, I personally visited the site to observe the progress of the project, and the feedback from the congregation has been very positive,” he said.