CM presents aid to 956 organisations, schools
KOTA KINABALU: Missionary schools, non-Muslim charitable organisations and religious associations in the southwest coast and lower interior parts of Sabah received aid from the State Government, presented by Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Mohd Shafie Apdal.
A total of 956 organisations and schools throughout Sabah were approved to receive financial aid from the government, comprising 665 religious bodies – including churches and temples – and 291 Sekolah Menengah Jenis Kebangsaan (SMJK), Sekolah Rendah Jenis Kebangsaan Cina (SJKC) and missionary schools and kindergartens.
The beneficiaries, according to Shafie, were selected based on priority in terms of the condition of the institutions and management in terms of financial need.
“The number of applications submitted by religious bodies this year were 1,157, with an amount of up to RM179.03 million.
Meanwhile, a total of 300 non-Muslim schools applied for aid, with an amount of RM106.8 million.
“Applications for financial aid by non-Muslim religious bodies and schools increased by over 100 per cent compared to previous years, which on a positive note means the non-Muslim communities have confidence in the new State government.
“As I o en say, I am Chief Minister to all Sabahans, regardless of race and religion. The non-Muslim communities are also tax payers who contribute and work for the State. We must accept the fact that we are a multireligious, multiracial society,” said Shafie.
He went on to highlight the importance of giving back to all communities, as they were the ones who supported the new government during the election period.
“We cannot turn our back on the people who supported our cause,” he said, adding that the aid given to beneficiaries would heighten to enable them to carry out their roles more effectively.
“Once we have been voted into power, we cannot forget those who supported us just because of religious differences. This country belongs to all its people of all races,” he affirmed.
Meanwhile, Minister of Education and Innovation Datuk Dr Yusof Yacob said it was the State government’s responsibility to care for and support institutions in need.
He conveyed hope that the managing parties of each institution, namely school board of governors and parent-teacher associations, manage the aid well in order to create a more conducive environment for students.
“It is our Ministry’s job to ensure the learning process and experience for students are in order, whether it is a government school, national school, private school or secular school. Each institution plays an important role in educating and shaping the next generation of Sabahans,” he said.