THE Penang government reaffirmed its long-standing commitment to religious harmony and social cohesion today with the presentation of RM2.495 million in financial aid to 78 non-Islamic houses of worship under the RIBI Fund (Rumah Ibadat Bukan Islam) for 2025.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the annual programme reflects the administration’s dedication to nurturing an inclusive and united society, in line with the Penang2030 vision.
“This event is not merely symbolic but a manifestation of the state government’s continuous commitment to fostering social harmony.
“Since 2016, the RIBI Committee has approved 411 applications amounting to RM16.1 million, proving our concern for the cultural and social heritage upheld by these institutions,” he said during the mock cheque handover ceremony in Komtar today.
He noted that the support is crucial as many houses of worship rely heavily on community donations, fundraising and corporate sponsorships.
“Preservation and repair works, especially for buildings with heritage architecture, require high cost and specialised expertise.
“If financial constraints persist, maintenance is often delayed, posing safety risks. Hence, this assistance is vital to ensure restoration works can proceed in a safe and orderly manner,” he added.
Chow also highlighted the state’s digital transformation through the eRIBI system, developed by Harmonico, which now manages the entire funding application and monitoring process online.
“The shift to a digital platform is a significant leap in enhancing public service delivery.
“It brings greater efficiency, transparency and auditability,” he said, adding that future upgrades would further strengthen community sustainability and social cohesion.
State executive councillor for Social Development, Welfare and Non-Islamic Affairs Lim Siew Khim said this year marked the first fully online application cycle via Eribi, resulting in the highest number of applications ever recorded, with 129 submissions.
“This digital transition has contributed to a surge in applications.
“From 129 applications, the committee approved 78, amounting to RM2.495 million,” she said.
Lim urged applicants to ensure complete documentation in the future, noting that 28 submissions this year were incomplete and could not be processed.
“Only complete applications can be evaluated based on established guidelines,” she stressed.
She also emphasised the importance of the annual allocation in easing the financial burden of houses of worship.
“This assistance is vital in supporting repair and maintenance works. It clearly reflects the state government’s sustained commitment to ensuring these premises can operate safely and comfortably for their communities,” Lim said.
Later, she extended further appreciation to all the state assemblymen’s offices, coordinators, and technical agencies for helping houses of worship, especially those less familiar with digital systems, navigate the online process.
“Their dedication, from providing technical guidance to participating in site visits, demonstrates their genuine concern for the needs of RIBI in their respective areas,” she said.
Both Chow and Lim underscored that Penang’s strength lies in its unity and shared values across diverse cultures and faiths.
“Unity is the foundation of our state’s stability.
“Our differences do not weaken us; they strengthen the unique fabric of Penang’s multicultural society,” he emphasised.
The event, held at Auditorium F, Komtar, brought together representatives from various houses of worship, state leaders, namely Deputy Chief Minister II Jagdeep Singh Deo, state Local Government, Town and Country Planning Committee chairman H’ng Mooi Lye, state Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai, state Youth, Sports, and Health Committee chairman Daniel Gooi Zi Sen, Seri Delima assemblyman Connie Tan Hooi Peng, Pengkalan Kota assemblyman Wong Yuee Harng, Bagan Jermal assemblyman Chee Yeeh Keen, Bukit Tambun assemblyman Goh Choon Aik, and RIBI committee members.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix by Siew Chia En
Video by Darwina Mohd Daud