THE state government continues to support and remains committed to ensuring the well-being of various non-Islamic houses of worship (RIBIs) in Penang.
This commitment was demonstrated today when representatives from a total of 43 RIBIs received mock cheques from the state government via the RIBI fund at Komtar.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow announced that a total of RM1.73 million was allocated to assist these RIBIs with maintenance, construction, and emergency works to ensure their smooth operation.
“Since October 2023, a total of RM1.73 million has been allocated to 43 various RIBIs in Penang. RM750,000 was designated for construction works, RM950,000 for maintenance, and RM30,000 for emergency works.
“Though the contribution is small, we hope it will help to ensure the smooth operation of the RIBIs,” Chow said.
Chow added that since the establishment of the RIBI fund in 2016, a total of RM11.74 million has been allocated for 279 applications.
“The state government, through the Penang Harmony Corporation (Harmonico), has created an online system called eRIBI, which serves as a ‘one-stop center’ to provide information on non-Islamic religious matters.
“So, I urge RIBI administrators to use this system in the future. It will play a significant role as the hub for RIBI inventory data,” Chow added.
Meanwhile, state Social Development, Welfare, and Non-Islamic Religious Affairs Committee chairman Lim Siew Khim shared that RIBIs can also apply for assistance from the Ministry of Housing and Local Government (KPKT). The application is open until June 30.
It is learned that a total of six RIBIs will be receiving the allocation from KPKT. They are Persatuan Amal Chin Chee Kok, Nibong Tebal (RM109,400), Persatuan Kebajikan Nibong Tebal (RM191,851), Rumah Berhala Thean Hor Seah Boh Cangkat (RM115,600), Rumah Berhala Kwong Hock Keong Teik Cheng Sin (RM221,740), Rumah Berhala Sri Veeramakaliamman (RM201,003) and Rumah Berhala Hock Teik See, Sungai Bakap (RM180,000).
Below are the pictures of the representatives from the RIBIs receiving mock cheques dignitaries present.
Story by Tanushalini Moroter
Pix by Siti Nuratikah Rahmat
Video by Siew Chia En