Kota Kinabalu: The State Government has set aside an allocation of RM56.75 million for the development of non-Muslim religious bodies, Mission schools, national type and private schools this year.
Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor said the amount allocated this year was an increase of RM2.7 million compared with the RM54.05 million allocated last year.
He added that from the sum allocated this year, RM24.15 million is meant for schools while the remaining RM32.6 million is for non-Muslim religious institutions.
“The increase in allocation shows the Sabah Government is always concerned and serious about assisting the people of the State, regardless of their race and religion,” he said at the Dragon, Unicorn and Lion Festival organised by the United Sabah Chinese Communities Association of Kota Kinabalu (USCCAKK), here, Saturday.
His speech text was read by Deputy Chief Minister II Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam. Hajiji said the Government had also allocated RM1.5 million for the purchase of lion heads statewide in conjunction with the Chinese New Year celebration this year.
“2024 is the Year of the Dragon in the Chinese Zodiac, which is known for its power, prowess and courage.
“I hope that the natural nature of the dragon will be a catalyst for us to continue the development agenda to restore the economy, implement all plans and find good opportunities for the State and people,” he added.
He urged the people of Sabah to continue supporting the initiatives and development programmes undertaken by the State Government.
“I would also like to thank the Chinese community for their continuous support and for shouldering the responsibilities together with the Government to develop the State,” he said.
Also present were Federal Deputy Minister of Plantation and Commodities Datuk Chan Foong Hin, State Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Christina Liew, State Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship Minister Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe, Mayor Datuk Seri Dr Sabin Samitah, Consul-General of the People’s Republic of China in Kota Kinabalu, Dr Huang ShiFang, USCCAKK President Datuk Susan Wong Siew Guen, Federation of Chinese Associations Sabah (FCAS) President Tan Sri T.C Goh, Sabah Hokkien Association Chairman Datuk Clement Yeh and other senior officials.
