Tenom: The State Government under the leadership of Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor continues to demonstrate its concern and commitment to churches under the Sabah Council of Churches by allocating funds to non-Islamic religious bodies.
State Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industry Minister and Melalap Assemblyman Datuk Jamawi Jaafar said the annual Christmas celebration is not only a religious observance but also a symbol of unity, harmony and togetherness among Sabah’s multi-ethnic and multi-religious society.
He said this when speaking at the Presentation of Goodwill Contributions to 61 churches in the Melalap constituency at the MRSG Hall, Wancher St Anthony, on Saturday.
Jamawi said the State Government’s inclusive approach towards all religious communities reflects its continued commitment to preserving social harmony and strengthening interfaith and interracial relations in Sabah.
He hoped the people in Melalap would continue to work together and live in unity, harmony and peace for the common good.
At the same time, Jamawi took the opportunity to extend New Year 2026 greetings to the people in his constituency, expressing hope that the coming year would bring greater success and further strengthen friendships within the community.
He advised members of the public who plan to travel out of the area to visit their families during the festive season to exercise caution while driving and to prioritise safety throughout their journey.
Jamawi and his wife, Zainatunnisa Ibrahim, also invited the public and church congregations to attend the Melalap Constituency Christmas Open House 2025, which will be held at the OKK Datuk Sanggau Jalang Open Hall on Dec 28, starting at 11.30am.
Meanwhile, Tenom Council of Churches Chairman Aidah John expressed hope for an even more meaningful Christmas celebration with Jamawi next year and thanked him for the Christmas contributions to all churches. He hoped Jamawi would continue to assist in the development of underprivileged churches in the Melalap constituency.
