Jamawi Presents Christmas Contributions to Melalap Churches

21 December 2025

TENOM: The Sabah State Government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor, continues to demonstrate its care and commitment to all churches under the Sabah Council of Churches by allocating funds to non-Islamic religious bodies.

The Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industry, who is also the State Assemblyman (ADUN) for N42 Melalap, Datuk Jamawi Jaafar, said that the annual Christmas celebration is not merely a religious observance, but also a symbol of unity, harmony and the spirit of togetherness among the state’s multi-ethnic and multi-religious society.

He said this in his speech at the Presentation of Contributions to 61 churches within the Melalap constituency, held today at the MRSG Hall, Wancher St Anthony, Tenom.

Jamawi said the State Government’s inclusive approach towards all religious communities reflects its continued commitment to preserving social harmony and strengthening relations among different races and faiths in Sabah.

In this regard, he expressed hope that the entire community in the Melalap constituency would continue to work hand in hand, living in unity, harmony and peace for the collective well-being of all.

At the same time, Jamawi took the opportunity to wish all residents in his constituency a Happy New Year 2026, and expressed hope that the coming year would bring greater success and further strengthen friendship among the community.

He also advised members of the public who plan to travel outside the area to visit family members to exercise caution while driving and to prioritise safety throughout their journey.

Jamawi, together with his wife, Datin Zainatunnisa Ibrahim, invited the public and all church congregations to attend the Melalap Constituency Christmas Open House 2025, which will be held at the OKK Datuk Sanggau Jalang Open Hall on 28 December, starting at 11.30 am.

The Organising Chairman for the Melalap Constituency Christmas Open House 2025 is Alfhonso Fiel.

Meanwhile, Tenom Council of Churches Chairman Aidah John expressed hope for a more festive Christmas celebration with Jamawi next year, conveyed her appreciation for the Christmas contributions to all churches, and expressed hope that Jamawi would continue to assist in the development of underprivileged churches within the Melalap constituency. Also present were District Officer Tusib Tulas and other church leaders.

Following the event, Jamawi met with 147 heads of polling stations in the Melalap constituency at the N.42 Melalap Elected Representative’s Service Centre in conjunction with the Christmas celebrations.