Johor state government allocates nearly RM17 million for Chinese New Year, supporting education, culture, development and festive celebrations statewide.
BATU PAHAT: The Johor state government has allocated nearly RM17 million for the Chinese community in conjunction with this year’s Chinese New Year celebrations.
Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi said the record allocation covers education, culture, development and festive activities.
He announced that RM1 million will be channelled to Southern University College.
A further RM3.27 million is allocated to 10 Chinese independent secondary schools.
Another RM1.3 million is designated for 219 national-type Chinese schools for teachers’ facilities and parent-teacher associations.
“For cultural and religious activities, RM1.5 million has been allocated for the Maju Johor lion dance programme,” Onn Hafiz said.
He added that RM2 million will go to non-Muslim houses of worship and Tiong Hua non-governmental organisations.
The state is also providing RM3 million through Bantuan Kasih Johor for Chinese new villages.
An additional RM4.36 million has been set aside to support various Chinese New Year programmes.
This includes the distribution of ang pow during the festive period.
Onn Hafiz said the allocation is the highest provided by the state government in recent years.
He attributed this partly to improving economic performance and state revenue.
Investments linked to the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone have also contributed to the state’s financial capacity.
Onn Hafiz added that the state government remains committed to safeguarding the welfare of all communities.
This commitment extends regardless of race or religion.
He emphasised strengthening unity through the spirit of Bangsa Johor.
