By Herald Malaysia
KUALA LUMPUR — The Malaysian Consultative Council of Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Sikhism and Taoism (MCCBCHST) has welcomed the increased allocation for non-Muslim houses of worship under Budget 2027, while calling for a transparent, equitable and accessible disbursement process.
In a statement dated October 12, the council described the increase as a positive and meaningful step towards ensuring safe, conducive and dignified environments for religious practice.
Budget 2027 provides RM80 million for the maintenance of registered non- Muslim houses of worship, as announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim when tabling the Budget on October 9.
MCCBCHST expressed appreciation to the government, particularly Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming, for recognising the needs of non- Muslim religious communities and supporting the preservation and upkeep of their places of worship.
“We hope this increased allocation will be accompanied by a transparent, equitable and accessible disbursement process,” the council said.
It stressed that houses of worship throughout the country should be able to benefit, particularly those with limited financial resources.
Many non-Muslim houses of worship depend largely on donations and contributions from well-wishers to sustain their operations, the council noted. Smaller communities often struggle to raise sufficient funds for essential maintenance and repairs.
MCCBCHST also called for further increases in future budgets, emphasising that the upkeep and improvement of religious facilities require sustained financial support.
Continued government assistance, it said, is crucial to helping these places remain safe, well-maintained and suitable for the communities they serve.
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