RM90 Million for Chinese Independent Schools, Mission Schools and Non-Muslim Religious Bodies

The Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS)-led Government has again increased financial assistance for Chinese independent schools, mission schools and non-Muslim religious bodies. The allocation rose from RM43 million in 2020 and 2021 to RM47 million in 2022; RM54.05 million in 2023; RM56.75 million in 2024; RM70 million in 2025; and RM90 million in 2026.

“The increased allocation reflects the State Government's commitment to continue supporting educational and religious institutions to assist development in human capital development, unity and the well-being of Sabahans,” Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Hajiji Haji Noor said at the presentation ceremony on 25 July 2026 for the 2026 financial assistance to Chinese schools and non-Muslim religious bodies for the Sandakan East Coast Zone at SJKC Chi Hwa Hall, Sandakan.

“The continuous increase in assistance since 2020 demonstrated the strength and resilience of the State’s economy and the government's financial position.” GRS focusses on the people, regardless of race, ethnicity or religious beliefs, Hajiji added. For the East Coast Zone, covering Sandakan, Beluran, Tongod, Telupid, Paitan, Kinabatangan and Sukau, he total allocation is RM9 million, an increase of RM2 million from 2025.

Of the total, RM4.41 million was for 42 educational institutions comprising one Chinese independent school, two national-type secondary schools, 10 Chinese national-type schools, nine mission primary and secondary schools, 18 kindergartens and two private mission schools. A further RM4.58 million was allocated to non-Muslim religious bodies, benefiting 96 churches from nine denominations, 27 Chinese temples and two Hindu temples. In 2026, the government approved 46 new applications from churches for maintenance, facility upgrades, educational development and spiritual activities.

The CM said that the Sabah Government has created another milestone by recognising the Unified Examination Certificate (UEC), allowing certificate holders greater opportunities to pursue studies at State-owned higher education institutions and eligible for the Sabah State Government scholarships. "We seek diversity in education systems. What matters most is producing quality, knowledgeable human capital capable of contributing to Sabah's future development," Hajiji said. Hajiji assured that the State Government, under his leadership, would continue to uphold the principles of justice, equality, and inclusiveness.

Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali, the Federal Minister of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living, delivered the CM’s speech.