Sabah to review funding for non-Muslim houses of worship ahead of state Budget 2027

The Sabah government is considering modifying its approach to allocating funds for non-Muslim places of worship, with plans to review this process prior to the 2027 state budget. This matter was among the discussions at a meeting attended by four senior state Cabinet ministers and leaders from the Sabah Council of Churches, including Bishop Wong Pui Kong.

Sabah Deputy Chief Minister III, Datuk Seri Ewon Benedick, brought up the idea of introducing scholarships or study assistance for church leaders pursuing theological studies as a means of government support. The meeting, chaired by Deputy Chief Minister I, Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam, also included representatives from various Christian denominations, such as the Anglican Diocese of Sabah, Basel Christian Church of Malaysia, and the Calvary Charismatic Centre, among others.

During the gathering, the ministers provided updates on several initiatives that the Sabah government is currently pursuing under Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor. Ewon expressed his appreciation for the support from SCC leadership, hoping that this inaugural meeting could become a platform for ongoing dialogue between government leaders and the church.

He emphasized the importance of continued engagement to strengthen cooperation between the government and religious institutions in Sabah, a state known for its diverse religious and cultural landscape. Bishop Wong highlighted the state government's efforts to promote harmony among people of different backgrounds and its respect for religious freedom, stating that the SCC and churches in Sabah would continue to work towards a peaceful and harmonious society for future generations.