The Penang state government’s “inclusive policy” of all races and religion was demonstrated again when they went about assisting houses of worship, including other than Islam.
This time around, a contribution of RM50,000 was approved for the Minor Basilica of St. Anne in Bukit Mertajam.
On hand to hand over the contribution was State Exco for Housing, Local Government, Town and Country Planning YB Jagdeep Singh Deo.
“We will continue to assist all houses of worship, including other than Islam.
“To-date under our Places of Worship Other than Islam (RIBI) fund, we have approved 216 applications – Chinese Temples (108), Indian Temples (54), Churches (44) and Gurdwaras (10) at a cost of RM9.04 million.
“I am happy to be here at the iconic heritage St. Anne’s Church to announce our approval of their application for RM50,000.00 under the fund, which has assisted the building of a stage to facilitate open-air masses at the Minor Basilica of St. Anne.
“This contribution is very meaningful as we begin the feast of St. Anne’s. All Houses of Worship other than Islam are encouraged to come forward to apply under this fund which we will duly consider”, said Jagdeep in his speech.
Also present at the handing over ceremony was the Member of parliament for Bukit Mertajam, YB Steven Sim, state assemblywoman for Berapit, YB Heng Lee Lee, Reverend Bishop Dato Seri Sebastian Francis and Deacon Lazarus.
