Majungki (third from right) presenting the financial aid to a recipient.
KOTA KINABALU: Over 300 schools, churches and temples in five northern Sabah districts received financial aid amounting to RM6.82mil from the state government.
The contributions for schools and non-Muslim houses of worship were presented by state Assistant Finance Minister Datuk Julita Majungki in a ceremony at the SJKC Khoi Ming Hall in Kota Marudu district on Tuesday (Nov 26).
In total, the funds were disbursed to 45 schools (RM2.29mil), 310 churches (RM4.11mil ), and nine temples (RM425,000) in Kudat, Banggi, Matunggong, Kota Marudu and Pitas.
"May this contribution provide some comfort and benefits, and foster a spirit of camaraderie among the communities in the state," Majungki said at the ceremony.
The Matunggong assemblyman added that the aid was to ease the burden on schools and religious bodies, and to ensure that schools and places of worship remained in conducive, safe and comfortable conditions.
She said the allocation for next year has been increased under the budget tabled on Nov 15.
RM70mil has been allocated under the state budget for 2025, an increase of RM13.25mil from this year's allocation of RM56.75mil.
Majungki said applications for next year's aid will be open from Jan 2 to March 31, and the application forms will be on the state Finance Ministry’s website.
She also called on the private sector, business chambers, and trade associations to participate and support schools and religious institutions in the state.
