Kuching: The Karma Kagyu Buddhist Centre has secured a RM169,939 allocation under the Ministry of Housing and Local Government’s (KPKT) Non-Islamic Houses of Worship (RIBI)programme, with assistance from Stampin MP Chong Chieng Jen’s Special Assistants.
Chong said his Special Assistants, Michael Kong Feng Nian and Sim Kiat Leng, had worked closely with the centre throughout the application process to help it secure the funding needed to upgrade and repair its facilities.
The RM169,939 allocation will be used to repair the centre’s perimeter fencing and upgrade its ageing toilet facilities.
He said the centre, which has served the community for more than 20 years, approached his team after identifying the need to improve its facilities.
“Michael and Sim assisted the centre from the initial engagement, understanding its needs, coordinating site inspections and checking the necessary documents, to following up on the application with the relevant authorities,” Chong said.
He added that both Special Assistants also accompanied representatives from the centre to Kuala Lumpur on 22 July 2026 to complete the necessary documentation for the disbursement.
Chong recently handed over the allocation cheque to the centre’s committee members and expressed hope that the funding would enable the centre to provide safer and more comfortable facilities for devotees.
He stressed that the RIBI programme is open to eligible non-Islamic houses of worship throughout Sarawak, including Buddhist organisations, temples, churches, and other eligible religious organisations.
He encouraged organisations with genuine repair and upgrading needs to apply, adding that his team was ready to assist eligible applicants with the application process and required documentation.
The RIBI programme is open for applications annually.
