KOTA KINABALU: Sabah has allocated RM56.75mil to support schools and non-Islamic religious bodies across the state this year.
This is to enhance educational facilities and maintain places of worship to keep them in safe and conducive conditions among others, said state Finance Minister Datuk Seri Masidi Manjun (pic).
He said this after presenting the distribution of funds during a ceremony at Menara Kinabalu here, attended by representatives from various schools, churches, temples, and other religious
Institutions on Monday (Oct 28).
He said this year’s allocation is RM2.7mil higher than last year's, reflecting the growing
requirements from schools and religious organisations, where 1,839 approvals were
granted, with RM24.15mil for schools and RM32.6mil for non-Islamic religious bodies.
“This funding relieves financial burdens and reinforces the development of educational and religious institutions - we aim to maintain social harmony and foster an inclusive environment where every community feels supported,” said Masidi.
The West Coast South Zone recipients, including those from Kota Kinabalu, Penampang and Putatan received RM24.14mil - RM8.67mil for a total of 125 schools and RM15.46mil for 648 religious bodies.
“This support is more than just financial aid - it represents an investment in Sabah’s human capital and moral foundation, helping schools maintain conducive learning environments and religious bodies uphold social values,” he added.
Masidi said the initiative, part of the Sabah Maju Jaya Development Plan, aims to strengthen
human capital and enhance social infrastructure throughout the state.
Similar handover ceremonies are scheduled for other zones in November to ensure the distribution reaches all districts.