KUCHING, Dec. 20 -- Backed by robust state revenue, the Sarawak government is enhancing its unique cross-community religious funding, increasing allocations for non-Muslim groups while celebrating a Muslim tithe system that finances major infrastructure projects.

Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg highlighted this policy during the officiation of the new Sri Aman Islamic Complex, a project largely funded through Muslim tithe contributions.

Abang Johari described the Islamic complex as a testament to the "tithe spirit" - a social obligation whereby prosperous Muslim individuals and commercial entities give back to the community.

He explained that the Baitulmal Sarawak Fund, established in 1984 under the late former chief ...