KOTA KINABALU: Sabah Chief Minister, Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Noor, announced that there has been an increase of RM2.7 million in allocations for the development of non-Muslim religious bodies, missionary schools, national and private schools in Sabah this year.
He said the state government allocated RM56.75 million for this purpose in 2024, compared to RM54.05 million in 2023.
Out of the RM56.75 million, Hajihu said RM24.15 million is allocated for schools and RM32.6 million for the development of non-Muslim religious bodies.
This increase in allocation demonstrates the State Government’s commitment to assisting the people of Sabah, regardless of their race, ethnicity, or religion, he said.
The announcement was made during the opening ceremony of the Dragon, Unicorn, and Lion Dance Festival, organised by the Kota Kinabalu United Sabah Chinese Community Association (USCCAKK) at the Sabah International Convention Center (SICC) on Saturday.
The speech was read by Deputy Chief Minister II/Minister of Local Government and State Housing, Datuk Seri Panglima Dr. Joachim Gunsalam.
Additionally, Hajiji said the state government allocated RM1.5 million in aid for the supply of lion heads throughout Sabah, which will be distributed to various associations and temples through the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) and Parliament.
“This allocation and the distribution of lion head aid during the Chinese New Year exemplify the government’s commitment to justice and equality in the distribution of resources and donations, allowing people to celebrate their respective festivals,” he said.
Hajiji commended the USCCAKK for their consistent organization of the Dragon, Unicorn, and Lion Dance Festival, which is eagerly anticipated by the Chinese community and people of diverse backgrounds and faiths.
