The RM90 million aid for Sabah's Chinese and mission schools and non-Muslim religious bodies is a welcome step that addresses years of funding inequality. These institutions have played a critical role in providing education and community services, especially in rural areas where national schools are scarce.
Chinese vernacular schools, for instance, preserve cultural heritage and often achieve strong academic results. Mission schools are known for their discipline and values-based education. Yet both have struggled with inadequate government support, relying on donations and fees. This injection of funds can repair dilapidated buildings, buy new equipment, and offer better learning resources.
For religious bodies, the aid helps maintain places of worship and supports social welfare activities that benefit the wider community. In a multicultural society like Sabah, such support fosters harmony and shows respect for all faiths.
Critics may argue about fiscal priorities, but the government is simply fulfilling its responsibility to all citizens. The aid does not favour one group over another; it levels the playing field. Moreover, investing in these schools and religious institutions yields long-term social returns—educated students and cohesive communities.
This is not a political gimmick. It is a practical answer to genuine needs. The funds should be disbursed transparently, but the principle of supporting minority institutions is sound and should be extended to other states as needed.