SANDAKAN: Financial assistance for Chinese independent schools, mission schools and non-Muslim religious bodies in Sabah has increased by more than 100 per cent, from RM43 million in 2020 to RM90 million this year.
Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Hajiji Haji Noor said that since the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) Government was given the mandate to govern the State in 2020, the annual financial assistance for Chinese schools, mission schools and non-Muslim religious bodies has been consistently increased.
The allocation rose from RM43 million in 2020 and 2021 to RM47 million in 2022 and RM54.05 million in 2023. The amount increased further to RM56.75 million in 2024 and RM70 million in
2025.
“This year, the government has decided to increase the total allocation to RM90 million,” he said at the presentation ceremony for the 2026 financial assistance to Chinese schools and non- Muslim religious bodies for the Sandakan East Coast Zone at SJKC Chi Hwa Hall here today.
His speech was delivered by the Minister of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living, Datuk Armizan
Mohd Ali.
Hajiji said the increased allocation reflected the State Government’s commitment to continue supporting educational and religious institutions that play an important role in human capital development, unity and the well-being of society in Sabah.
“It is hoped that this contribution will help support the activities of Chinese schools and non- Muslim religious bodies throughout Sabah,” he said.
He said the continuous increase in assistance since 2020 demonstrated that as the State’s economy grows stronger and the government’s financial position becomes more stable, the benefits will be returned to the people.
“This is the commitment of the GRS Government to ensure that every community in Sabah receives fair attention and enjoys the benefits of the State’s development regardless of race, religion or background.
“This symbolises the State Government’s support and concern for the people regardless of race, ethnicity or religious beliefs. We assist according to our capacity and the needs of the people.
“Let us continue working together to ensure Sabah remains progressive, peaceful and prosperous, developing rapidly for the well-being of us all,” he said.
In line with this commitment, the Sabah Government has created another milestone by recognising the Unified Examination Certificate (UEC), allowing certificate holders greater opportunities to pursue studies at State-owned higher education institutions and apply for Sabah State Government scholarships.
“This reflects the government’s confidence in the diversity of education systems that exist in the State. What matters most is producing quality, knowledgeable human capital capable of contributing to Sabah’s future development,” he said.
Meanwhile, a total of RM9 million has been approved for the East Coast Zone, covering Sandakan, Beluran, Tongod, Telupid, Paitan, Kinabatangan and Sukau, an increase of RM2 million compared to 2025.
Of the total, RM4.41 million has been allocated to 42 educational institutions comprising one Chinese independent school, two national-type secondary schools, 10 Chinese national-type schools, nine mission primary and secondary schools, 18 kindergartens and two private mission
schools.
A further RM4.58 million has been allocated to non-Muslim religious bodies, benefiting 96 churches from nine denominations, 27 Chinese temples and two Hindu temples.
“This year, 46 new applications from churches have also been approved. I hope the assistance presented today will be utilised effectively for maintenance, facility upgrades, educational development and spiritual activities for the benefit of the local community,” he said.
Hajiji assured that the State Government, under his leadership, would continue to uphold the principles of justice, equality, and inclusiveness.
“We do not look at race or religion when providing assistance. Instead, we focus on the needs of the people and the future of the State, which must be developed together.
“This is the spirit that has guided the GRS Government since it was entrusted with governing the State. I am confident that with the spirit of unity, mutual respect and togetherness that defines the people of Sabah, the State will continue to progress, prosper and remain stable.
This is the foundation that will continue to drive Sabah Maju Jaya for today’s and future generations,” he said.
“As a responsible State Government, we will continue planning and working hard to address issues while ensuring that all communities, regardless of race or religion, receive fair and equitable assistance.
“That is why I have always supported and assisted institutions, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and associations that require assistance. This spirit of solidarity and togetherness has been the guiding principle of the GRS Government since we formed the State Government in 2020,” he said.-pr/BNN
