In announcing the good news to the community here on behalf of Prime Minister Najib Razak, Energy, Green Technology and Water Minister Dr Maximus Ongkili said the funds were in aid of the maintenance of these churches, mostly from the Sidang Injil Borneo (SIB) denomination.

“The grants will be disbursed based on the requests submitted by the respective churches, some needing repairs and others newly built,” said the minister when officiating the eighth series of the Yayasan Hijau Malaysia (YaHijau) tour programme at the Kampung Long Tuan Cultural House in Trusan here.

Ongkili, who is also Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS) deputy president, also gave an assurance that he would ensure the Prime Minister’s Office would expedite disbursement of the funds to the respective churches soonest.

“This is a personal assurance from me because these churches could not be assisted by the assemblyman who represents the Opposition party.”

He added that the funds show the Federal Government is supportive of the religious and spiritual development of the people.

“It is also good for nation building. Only a caring party like Barisan Nasional can assist in the infrastructure needs of the people, including facilities for worship in Sabah and Sarawak,” Ongkili said.

Present at the event was Sabah Deputy Chief Minister Joseph Pairin Kitingan, who is also the PBS president.

Kitingan, who joined in the campaigning for BN candidate for Ba’kelalan Willie Liau , urged voters to come out in full force to recapture the seat from the Opposition in the Sarawak election on Saturday.

“The last five years have been bitter for the people due to the lack of development. I believe the voters here are wise and will make the right decision come polling day.

“Only BN can fulfil the people’s needs.”