SARIKEI: Deputy Minister of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability, Dato' Sri Huang Tiong Sii, has successfully secured a RM600,000 grant from the Unit for Other Religions (UNIFOR) to support the Chiang Chuang Association Sarikei in the construction of the Fu Gui Ting Tua Pek Kong Temple.

Dato' Sri Huang emphasised Malaysia’s commitment to upholding religious freedom, where mutual respect among different faiths is a cornerstone of the nation's harmony.

“The government consistently supports the development of religious institutions and provides funding to facilitate their growth. This includes the Fu Gui Ting Tua Pek Kong Temple, which has received significant backing from the Sarawak government,” he stated.

He expressed satisfaction with the ongoing progress of the temple’s construction in Meranti, which is nearing completion thanks to the dedication and collaboration of the temple’s committee, association members, and devotees.

Since 2020, Dato' Sri Huang has successfully secured a total of RM2 million in funding for the temple under the Rural Transformation Project (RTP), with RM300,000 granted in 2020 and 2021, and RM600,000 awarded in 2024.

In addition to the temple funding, Dato' Sri Huang represented Sarawak Deputy Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts, Datuk Sebastian Ting Chiew Yew, during the ceremony, presenting a RM4,000 contribution to the Chiang Chuang Association Sarikei to support the organisation of a Sarawak-level singing competition.

Among the distinguished attendees were Chairman of the Chiang Chuang Association Sarikei, Kua Soon Lee, Chairman of the Sarikei District Council, Wong Zee Yeng, and other honoured guests.-UKASnews