KOTA KINABALU: The State Government contributed lion heads to various Chinese  temples and associations throughout Sabah for the fourth consecutive year in  conjunction with the upcoming Chinese New Year. 

Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Hajiji Haji Noor said the State Government has  allocated RM1.5 million for the purpose this year. 

Hajiji was represented by Finance Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Masidi Manjun in  presenting the lion heads to the respective temples and associations in the West Coast  central zone at the Sabah International Convention Centre here today. 

The ceremony marked the kick-off of these contributions, also be held in nine other  zones in the State in the run-up to the Chinese New Year celebrations. 

The zones are Beaufort/Sipitang, Kudat/Kota Marudu, Keningau, Tenom,  Tawau/Semporna, Sandakan, Lahad Datu, Ranau and Kota Belud.  

Also at the presentation ceremony were Community Development and People's  Wellbeing Datuk James Ratib, Sabah United Chinese Chamber of Commerce and  Industry President Tan Sri Andrew Liew, organising chairman Datuk Dr Roland Chia,  Chinese Consul General in Kota Kinabalu Huang Shifang, Japan Consul General in Kota  Kinabalu Yamashita Yoshito, elected representatives and Chinese community leaders. 

Ends