KOTA KINABALU: The Sabah government has allocated RM70 million, an increase of RM13.25 million, to provide assistance to non-Islamic religious bodies, missionary schools, and private schools in the state in 2025, said Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Noor. He noted that the allocation for the coming year represents a rise from RM56.75 million in 2024.
He hopes that this assistance will help alleviate the financial burdens of schools and religious organizations involved in ensuring that facilities remain conducive, safe, and comfortable.
“The State Government is committed to and continuously implements a policy of justice and equality in all aspects to assist the people, regardless of race and religion, for the sake of maintaining harmony in this state,” he said during the Opening Ceremony of the Kota Kinabalu Christmas Celebration (KKCC) for 2024 at Padang Merdeka on Tuesday.
His speech was read by Deputy Chief Minister I/ Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Food Industry, Datuk Seri Panglima Dr. Jeffrey G. Kitingan.
Hajiji called upon all communities to continue maintaining the peace, harmony, and mutual understanding enjoyed by the diverse population in Sabah and to remain an example for the country. He also urged the people of Sabah to continue practicing love and compassion towards one another indefinitely. Truly, harmony among communities is vital to the success of the Sabah government’s aspirations for a prosperous future.
“I am confident that the four-day Christmas celebration will be a catalyst for understanding and harmony among various segments of society. I hope all activities carried out during this celebration will be received and utilized as best as possible by all members of the community,” he stated.
He remarked that this year’s 19th KKCC celebration with the theme “Love in Action” is particularly appropriate, especially in Sabah, which is home to people of various races and religions.
“This theme is strongly supported because it encourages us to love one another, not just to talk about love, but to express and demonstrate that love through action. Love among a community of diverse ethnicities, nationalities, and religions is essential for the well-being, prosperity, and peace of our beloved state of Sabah,” he emphasized.
Hajiji praised the creative efforts and cooperation among various segments of the community in the state who have participated in making handmade beaded necklaces for the celebration. This collaboration highlights the strong unity among the people, regardless of race and religion.
“Let us all join hands and work hard to ensure that our state continues to prosper.
“Happy Christmas to all Christians and a Happy New Year 2025 to all the people of this state,” he concluded.-pr/BNN
