MIRI: Several churches in Miri received financial assistance from the Sarawak Government through the Unit for Other Religions (UNIFOR), aimed at improving facilities and ensuring safe, comfortable worship environments for their congregations.

The handover was officiated by Deputy Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts (Tourism) and Piasau Assemblyman, Datuk Sebastian Ting Chiew Yew, during visits to BEM Kairos, St Joseph Cathedral Miri and the Methodist Iban Church of Miri City on Monday morning.

A total of RM450,000 was channelled to the three churches.

BEM Kairos received RM100,000 for upgrading its PA system and mechanical equipment, while St Joseph Cathedral was allocated RM200,000 for full electrical rewiring and ceiling replacement.

The Methodist Iban Church of Miri City obtained RM150,000 to enhance its prayer hall, which includes installing LED displays, improving the PA system, providing new seating and a divider for instrumentation.

Datuk Sebastian advised all recipient churches to deposit the cheques promptly which is valid for three months, and ensure the funds are utilised responsibly with proper reporting.

He added that churches may submit applications for additional support should the need arise, depending on the utilisation of current allocations.

“If the UNIFOR allocation is still insufficient, they may apply again for additional funding next year,” he said. -UKASnews