AN allocation of RM600,000 has been given to Sibu’s St Teresa’s Church for renovation by Sarawak’s Unit for Other Religions (Unifor).
Sarawak Deputy Education, Innovation and Talent Development Minister Datuk Dr Annuar Rapaee said Unifor allocated RM500,000 to the church in 2021.
“The church was built in 1960. Its architecture is unique. That’s why it has to be preserved for its historical value,” he said after a cheque presentation ceremony.
He advised the church to apply for more aid from Unifor, which has given out RM110mil to religious bodies all over Sarawak, if the amount was insufficient.
Separately, Dr Annuar advised BEM Bethel Church in Sibu to utilise its premises to provide English, mathematics and science tuition for students in Kampung Bahagia Jaya.
“A majority of students in this area attend SMK Bukit Assek and SK Bahagia Jaya and I have observed that their academic performance has yet to reach a satisfactory level.
“I will help provide chairs and tables if needed,” he said when presenting RM200,000 to the church.
Dr Annuar said tuition should be provided to Year Four, Five and Six pupils so they could enter Yayasan Sarawak International Secondary School Sibu, which will start accepting students in 2026.
“This school is free for the B40 group but requires good academic results and passing a special examination,” he said. — By ANDY CHUA
