KOTA KINABALU: The Sabah government should consider setting up a department or unit to coordinate matters involving non-Muslim religious bodies and mission schools in the region, says Luyang assemblyman Samuel Wong.
He said such a dedicated unit could be a one-stop platform helping religious organisations and mission schools navigate government agencies and processes, while allowing the administration to better understand their needs and contributions.
"The proposed setup need not replace existing departments. Instead, it can... help these organisations work with the relevant agencies and ensure that their issues are properly understood and directed to the right channels," he said in a statement on Friday (Aug 28).
The Parti Warisan assemblyman said the unit could also look beyond individual funding applications and would better understand the community programmes of religious organisations.
Wong also said the move would strengthen an inclusive approach in a state with a diverse and harmonious society.
"Sabah is a multiracial and multireligious region where people of different faiths and backgrounds have been able to live together peacefully. This is something we should value and protect," he added.
He said a dedicated state department or unit would help address the specific challenges faced by non-Muslim religious bodies and mission schools.
He noted that churches, temples and mission schools are not merely places of worship or education, but also play an important role in community development, social welfare and the promotion of harmony.
Many such organisations were involved in charity work, education, youth activities, community programmes and outreach to communities, including those in the interior, he added.
"Existing assistance is appreciated, but a one-off allocation may not always address the different and continuing needs of an organisation.
"Infrastructure maintenance, educational costs, community outreach and social programmes are also areas that may require attention," he said.
