SANDAKAN: The Sabah State Government has more than doubled its annual financial assistance for Chinese private schools, mission schools, and non-Muslim religious bodies, raising the allocation from RM43 million in 2020 to RM90 million this year.
Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor stated that this marks a consistent upward trend since the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) administration took office, reflecting the state’s strengthened fiscal position and growing economy.
“This year, the Government has taken another decisive step by raising the total allocation to RM90 million,” he said in a statement following the presentation of financial aid to Chinese schools and non-Muslim religious bodies in the Sandakan East Coast Zone on Saturday.
Hajiji emphasised that the increased allocation underscores the State Government’s dedication to institutions vital to human capital development, social cohesion, and community well-being across Sabah.
“We hope this contribution will help support the programmes and activities of these institutions throughout the state,” he added.
During the ceremony, Hajiji announced that RM9 million has been approved specifically for Sabah’s east coast zone—covering Sandakan, Beluran, Tongod, Telupid, Paitan, Kinabatangan, and Sukau—representing a RM2 million increase compared to previous years.
Breaking down the East Coast allocation, RM4.41 million has been earmarked for 42 educational institutions, comprising one Chinese independent school, wo national-type secondary schools,10 national-type Chinese primary schools, nine missionary primary and secondary schools, 18 kindergartens, and two private missionary schools.
The remaining RM4.58 million has been allocated to non-Muslim religious bodies, benefiting 96 churches from nine denominations, 27 Chinese temples, and two Hindu temples. Notably, Hajiji revealed that 46 new applications from churches were approved this year.
Urging recipients to utilise the funds effectively, the Chief Minister encouraged their use for maintenance, facility upgrades, educational development, and spiritual activities that will benefit local communities. He reiterated that the steady increase in assistance since 2020 ensures every community in Sabah receives fair attention and shares in the state’s development, regardless of race, religion, or background. – James Leong
Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali (4th left), presents the cheque to the representative of a non-Muslim religious body in Sandakan.
