Melaka to allocate RM1.3 mil in aid to non-Muslim houses of worship: Sulaiman

MELAKA – Melaka is allocating RM1.3 million in financial assistance to repair, maintenance, and emergency works at non-Muslim houses of worship under the state’s Budget 2022 initiative.

Chief Minister Datuk Seri Sulaiman Md Ali said a total of RM591,750 will be given to 16 applicants in the first phase of the aid assistance while the rest will be given to applicants in phase two according to the conditions set.

“Each application will be scrutinised in line with the existing rules and guidelines so that this aid will achieve its goals and objectives in supporting non-Muslim houses of worship.

“The decision made by the committee takes into account the conditions set by the National Unity Ministry and Melaka guidelines on non-Muslim houses of worship in line with the sensitivities of the people in this state,” he told reporters in Ayer Keroh here today.

Sulaiman said 428 religious associations are registered with the Melaka State Registrar of Societies, but a check of records has found that only 168 non-Muslim houses of worship are registered with the state government.

He said it is important for every such establishment in Melaka to be registered under the state government to facilitate the authorities’ monitoring, avoid objections from local residents, and maintain harmony and peace among the races.

“Certainly, there are several advantages if these non-Muslim houses of worship are registered with the state government because if there is an allocation to be channelled by the federal government, the registered houses of worship have the opportunity to obtain this financial allocation,” he added. – Bernama, November 7, 2022