Madani Government advocates an inclusive Malaysia

13 July 2025

KOTA KINABALU: The Malaysia Madani government is dedicated to fostering a democratic, just, and equitable society for all citizens. Central to this vision is the promotion of religious freedom and equality, which are essential foundations for cultivating a more harmonious and inclusive Malaysia.

A tangible demonstration of this commitment is the allocation of funding to non-Islamic places of worship (RIBI) for their maintenance and repair. This initiative underscores the government's recognition of the importance of respecting and supporting diverse religious practices, ensuring that all communities can uphold their places of worship with dignity and security. Such efforts reflect a broader dedication to fostering mutual respect, understanding, and unity among Malaysia’s multifaceted population.

Recently, the Minister of Housing and Local Government, Nga Kor Ming, presented allocations to fifteen RIBI organisations in Sabah during a ceremony at the BCCM Christian Church in Petagas. The total sum allocated to these organisations amounted to RM2.7 million, reflecting the government's continued commitment to supporting community and religious initiatives in the region.

One of the recipients is St Michael Church in Penampang, which received RM186,690. The church was represented by its Chairman of the Finance and Property Committee, Albert Mining, and the secretary, Datin Leena Toyoi.

This generous fund is designated for their renovation and extension projects. Leena expressed heartfelt gratitude, explaining that they have already begun some work in anticipation of the funds becoming available. They applied for the grant in April this year when the application period opened.

"We are truly grateful to the government for this support," she said sincerely. "This funding will make a significant difference to our church community, enabling us to improve our facilities and better serve our congregation. We thank the authorities sincerely for recognising our needs and providing this assistance."

Pekan Tenom SIB Church was awarded RM246,832, with PTA Esar Andamas representing them. He shared that the funds would be used to repair and paint their church and pastor’s house, as well as to widen the church hall by 40 feet times 60 feet, and to upgrade the electrical wiring, fans, and ceiling.

"We are overjoyed and give thanks to the Lord. We are especially grateful to the government for their kindness and support towards our church’s development. Our church has been standing for 10 years, and this assistance will help us to continue growing. We also plan to install a fence for added security."

The Dewa Jen Foo Chung An Hui in Papar was granted RM241,000, represented by Leo Thien. He explained that the funds would be used to build an access road to the temple and to create parking bays to accommodate the growing number of worshippers.

Having applied three times, this is their third successful attempt, and they are immensely thankful.

"We are extremely grateful to the government for this support. It’s been a long journey, but we finally received the assistance we needed. This funding will help us improve the accessibility and facilities for our community, and we are sincerely thankful for this recognition and aid."

Lighthouse Church (Baptist) in Kg Lajong received RM139,960. The church was represented by its pastor, Au Vin Phau. He expressed deep appreciation for the funds, despite initially applying for RM250,000 to cover various church needs.

The money will be used for repairs, expansion, upgrading the roof, and electrical wiring.

"We are truly thankful to the government for this support. Our congregation has grown to over 200 members, with approximately 1,000 in the whole. Several other churches applied for aid, but we are the only one that was approved.  We are grateful that our efforts have been recognised. This support means a great deal to us; it affirms that our community’s needs are seen and valued. We praise God and thank the authorities for their kindness and generosity."

Other recipients were Persatuan Penganut Dewa Seng Ong Kong in Keningau received RM110,400 while Basel Christian Church of Malaysia in Petagas received RM163,760 and Seventh-day Adventist Church in Minangkob received RM121,663.  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)  and Persatuan I-Kuan Tao Hung Tsung Ren Sou in Penampang (RM151,600).