State aid to fund temples’ maintenance

THE state government has allocated RM1.73mil to assist 43 non-Islamic houses of worship (RIBI) in Penang.

Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the funds will assist them with maintenance, construction and emergency works.

“Since October 2023, a total of RM1.73mil has been allocated to 43 RIBI in Penang with RM750,000 for construction, RM950,000 for maintenance and RM30,000 for emergency works.

“Though the contribution is small, we hope it will help ensure the smooth operation of these houses of worship,” Chow said, as reported by Buletin Mutiara.

Representatives of the 43 RIBI received mock cheques during an event at Komtar in George Town.

Chow also said that since the establishment of the RIBI fund in 2016, a total of RM11.74mil had been allocated to 279 applicants.

“The state government, through Penang Harmony Corporation (Harmonico), has created an online system called eRIBI which serves as a ‘one-stop centre’ to provide information on non-Islamic religious matters.

“So, I urge administrators to use this system in the future.

“It will play a significant role as the hub for RIBI data,” he said, adding that the state government remained committed to ensuring the well-being of these houses of worship in Penang.

State social development, welfare and non-Islamic religious affairs committee chairman Lim Siew Khim said RIBI could also apply for assistance from the Housing and Local Government Ministry.

It is learned that six RIBI will be receiving an allocation from the ministry.

They are Persatuan Amal Chin Chee Kok in Nibong Tebal (RM109,400), Persatuan Kebajikan Nibong Tebal (RM191,851), Rumah Berhala Thean Hor Seah Boh in Changkat (RM115,600), Rumah Berhala Kwong Hock Keong Teik Cheng Sin in Nibong Tebal (RM221,740), Rumah Berhala Sri Veeramakaliamman in George Town (RM201,003) and Rumah Berhala Hock Teik See in Sungai Bakap (RM180,000).