CAMOS Calls on Shafie to Fulfil Earlier Commitment of Fixed Allowances for Priests and Pastors

Datuk Shafie Apdal (centre) enjoys widespread respect and admiration from multi-cultural Sabahans, including the Christian communities. Many have put hope in him to lead Sabah to a new height should Warisan be given the people's mandate on polling day on November 29, 2025. 

Borneo Herald

12.03PM MYT, 22-11-2025

Statement by CAMOS 

KOTA KINABALU : The Change Advocate Movement of Sabah (CAMOS) today respectfully urges Datuk Shafie Apdal to move forward with the implementation of a commitment he made while serving as Chief Minister — the introduction of a fixed monthly allowance for Bishops, Priests, Pastors, Catechists, and other Christian religious leaders in Sabah.

On behalf of the Christian community in Sabah, CAMOS would also like to record our sincere appreciation to Shafie for gazetting 24 December as addition sebagai cuti tambahan sempena perayaan Krismas.

This historic and meaningful decision has been warmly welcomed by Christians across Sabah, as it recognises the importance of the Christmas season and affirms the state’s respect for religious diversity.

This initiative, widely appreciated by the Christian community, was delayed due to two unforeseen challenges: the COVID-19 pandemic and the abrupt change of government in 2020. These circumstances disrupted several social and community development programmes planned under the previous administration, including this important one.

However, CAMOS believes the moment has arrived to revive and fulfil this commitment in good faith.

A Promise Made Should Be a Promise Honoured

Religious leaders, particularly in Christian-majority areas, shoulder immense social responsibilities — providing spiritual leadership, community counselling, humanitarian support, and serving as stabilising anchors in rural and urban communities alike. Many continue their work with limited financial means and without institutional support.

Providing them with a modest fixed allowance is not only reasonable — it is a just and compassionate recognition of the critical role they play in Sabah’s social fabric.

CAMOS therefore calls on Datuk Seri Shafie to reaffirm this policy and ensure it becomes part of Warisan’s immediate agenda. Honouring this earlier promise would demonstrate consistency, credibility, and sincerity of leadership — values the people of Sabah expect and deserve.

Strengthening Sabah’s Multi-Faith Harmony

Supporting religious leaders across all denominations contributes to a peaceful, harmonious, and united Sabah. The Christian community, especially in the KDM heartland, has long been a vital pillar of the state’s social and cultural identity.

By fulfilling this commitment, Warisan signals that every community — regardless of faith — is valued, respected, and supported.

CAMOS stands ready to assist in drafting the policy framework, engaging with church leadership, and communicating the implementation plan to the public.

Daniel John Jambun is President of

Change Advocate Movement of Sabah (CAMOS)#~Borneo Herald™