Kota Kinabalu: The Sabah Government has allocated RM70 million – an increase of RM13.25 million – in financial aid to non-Islamic religious bodies, missionary schools and private schools in the State for 2025.
Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor said next year’s allocation has increased compared to RM56.75 million in 2024.
AdvertisementHe hopes this assistance will help ease the financial burden on schools and religious bodies involved in ensuring that their facilities remain conducive, safe and comfortable.
“The State Government is committed to consistently practising policies of fairness and equality in all aspects to assist the people, regardless of race and religion, in order to maintain social harmony in the State,” he said at the opening of the 2024 Kota Kinabalu Christmas Celebration (KKCC) at Padang Merdeka here Tuesday.
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Hajiji urged all communities to continue preserving the peace, harmony and understanding enjoyed by Sabah’s multi-ethnic population, serving as an example for the nation.
Advertisement (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});He also called on the people of Sabah to continue fostering love and compassion among humanity for generations to come. Indeed, harmony among communities is the cornerstone of the Government’s Sabah Maju Jaya aspirations.
“I am confident that this four-day Christmas celebration will be a catalyst for understanding and harmony among the diverse layers of society. I hope all activities held during this celebration will be well-received and fully utilised by all groups,” he said.
Advertisement (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});Hajiji said this year’s 19th KKCC celebration, themed “Love in Action” is particularly relevant in Sabah, a State with a diverse population of races and religions.
“This theme is highly commendable as it encourages us to love one another, not just by speaking about love but by translating and demonstrating it through actions.
“Love among people of various ethnicities, races and religions is crucial for the welfare, prosperity and peace of our beloved Sabah,” he said.
Hajiji praised the creative efforts and collaboration of various community groups in the State, particularly for producing handmade bead necklaces for the celebration.
This collaboration highlights the strong unity among people, regardless of race or religion.
“Let us join hands and work hard to ensure this state continues to progress,” he said, while wishing State Merry Christmas to all Christians and Happy New Year 2025 to all.