GOVT GIVES FUNDS FOR ALL HOUSES OF WORSHIP

PORT DICKSON (Malaysia), Dec 12 (Bernama) -- The government has provided
large allocations for the construction of houses of worship of religions other
than Islam, but does not brag about it, Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister's
Department Senator T. Murugiah said Friday.

He said the government did not make a big issue of these allocations in an
attempt to win over the hearts of the people.

"We are giving (allocations to) everyone. No religion is neglected, although
Islam is the official religion of the country. The interests of other religions
are taken into account as well," he told reporters here.

Murugiah was commenting on the statement by a Member of Parliament Nga
Kor Ming for bigger allocations to be given for the construction of the houses
of worship of other religions.

"He does not see that we give (allocations) for Hindu temples, churches and
Chinese temples. He does not see that. He sees what we give for mosques," he
said.

Murugiah said that in the ruling Barisan Nasional (BN), it was not one or
two ministers or deputy ministers who applied for funds from the government to
build the houses of worship of other religions.

"I appeal to all quarters to adhere to the (provisions in the) constitution.
Let's not vie to be champions and raise issues which can hurt the sentiments of
the other communities," he said.
-- BERNAMA