Three churches in Gedong District receive a total of about RM1.59 million contribution from UNIFOR

GEDONG, Dec 6 2025:  Efforts to strengthen non-Muslim religious infrastructure in Sarawak continued as three churches in Gedong District received reconstruction funds through the Unit for Other Religions (UNIFOR) today, reaffirming the state’s commitment to supporting inclusive community development.

Caption: A representative from SDA Church Semalatong receiving a cheque from Premier Abang Johari Openg;s special representative Naroden Majais at a ceremony at Kampung Keniong Jaya. 

 The contribution was presented by Premier and Gedong State Legislative Member (SLM) Abang Johari Openg’s special representative  Mohd Naroden Majais, during the Samarahan Division Programme "Randau Solidariti Komuniti (PRSK) 2025" held at Rumah Suni anak Liam, Kampung Keniong Jaya.

Under UNIFOR’s Phase three implementation, SDA Church Kampung Batu Pengasah received RM800,000 for rebuilding works, while St Mark Chapel Gayau was allocated RM600,000 for reconstruction.

SDA Church Semalatong also received RM192,000 to support similar rebuilding needs.

The assistance forms part of the Sarawak government’s ongoing efforts to improve facilities and ensure houses of worship across the state remain safe, conducive and functional for their congregations.

Naroden said he hopes the allocations will be utilised effectively to ensure smooth construction progress and to deliver long-term benefits to the local communities.

He emphasised that the funding demonstrates the government’s commitment to supporting all religious groups and strengthening social harmony.

Among those present were Batang Sadong MP Rodiyah Sapiee, executive secretary of the Social Development Council of the Ministry of Women, Early Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Riziandy Nawawi, Samarahan Division Deputy Resident Rais Ahmat, Gedong District Officer Tamida Da’adi, and Tuai Rumah Kampung Keniong Jaya, Suni Liam.

 

To date, 73 victims have lodged police reports, scammed of over RM11 mllions by a bank officer, says Michael Kong

KUCHING, Dec 6 2025: Sarawak DAP chairman Chobg Chieng Jen’s special assistant Michael Kong has claimed that “to date” 73 victims have reported losses exceeding RM11 millions to the police, all pointing to the same officer with a bank.

Caption: Michael Kong (facing camera) talking to Dr Alex and his family members 

He said this is an alarming number and raises serious questions about internal controls and oversight within the bank.

“Earlier today, I accompanied  Dr Alex, his wife, and his sister to the Tabuan Jaya Police Station, where they were requested to attend a police identification parade.

“The family collectively lost RM700,000 to a bank officer who allegedly misled them into investing in a bogus financial product,” Kong said in a statement.

“Many other victims were also present, and from our discussions, it was clear that the same modus operandi was used in every case.

“This reveals a serious breach of trust exploiting the good faith of ordinary Malaysians trying to grow their hard-earned savings,” he said.

Kong said he was informed that the officer allegedly involved in the investment scam is currently under remand until December 8.

“Meanwhile, we will continue to assist Dr Alex and his family, as well as the other affected victims, in every way possible to ensure they receive the justice and restitution they deserve.

“We also urge the authorities and the bank to expedite investigations, safeguard evidence, and ensure that all those affected are promptly compensated.

“At the same time, we will continue to monitor developments closely and stand firm with the victims in their pursuit of justice,” Kong stressed.