The state government under Barisan Nasional has never neglected the interest of any race or religion in Sabah, according to Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Aman.

This, he said, was reflected in the sizeable RM32 million allocation in the 2017 state budget for activities and needs of Chinese schools, Mission schools and non Muslim religious organisations in the state.

"The state government understands the Chinese community's emphasis on setting up and managing their schools, therefore we set aside RM12 million for Chinese schools in Sabah annually," he said.

He said this while opening Sekolah Menengah Pei Tsin Kudat's new building and multipurpose complex here, today.

Musa also said the state government was also concerned for the problems and needs of private secondary schools in Sabah, "hence the RM250,000 allocation annually for them".

"We also recognise and appreciate the Chinese community's contribution to the government in helping to eradicate poverty and illiteracy through education," he said.

Musa further expressed the state government's gratitude to parties including donors who were involved in duly ensuring the completion of Sekolah Menengah Pei Tsin Kudat's new building and multipurpose complex.

"This 48-year-old school is the only private school in the district and it now has a beautiful infrastructure. I believe with such facility, the learning and teaching process will be more conducive," he said. -- Bernama