THE state government is set to introduce an eRIBI system to have a comprehensive data of the non-Muslim houses of worship (RIBI) in Penang.
Chong Eng, the state executive councillor for non- Islamic Religious Affairs and Social Development, said the eRIBI system would benefit three parties, namely state government, RIBI associations or organisations and the public.
“We (the state government) can receive and approve the applications pertaining to allocation through eRIBI system.
“Furthermore, this (eRIBI) would also enable the non-Muslim houses of worship to update their information on our database.
“The best part of using this system is that the public can search online for RIBIs in Penang, according to district and religion as well as get updates on religious festivals taking place throughout the year,” said Chong Eng when she visited the Kek Lok Si Temple this evening.
Chong Eng added that through the eRIBI system the state government would be able to collect the information on RIBIs, such as the registration particular, allocation received, land grant and many other details.
“The main purpose of initiating the eRIBI system is to create a systematic approach in collecting data on RIBI in Penang.
“Currently, the state government obtains RIBI data from the Registry of Societies Malaysia (ROS) but not all RIBIs are registered under ROS.
“Some are registered under the Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM), Cooperatives Act and some established under the Parliament Act,” said Chong Eng.
Elaborating further, Chong Eng said the eRIBI system would help to assist RIBIs on any issues that they are dealing with.
“This would be a proper platform for non-Muslim houses of worship to seek assistance from the state government and its agencies, for instance on matters pertaining to land ownership status.
“RIBI data can also be used as a reference when we conduct RIBI Correlation Study in each district,” added Chong Eng.
According to Chong Eng, the state government will be allocating RM55,000 for the eRIBI system which will be managed by her office.
Story by Tanushalini Moroter
Pix by Law Suun Ting