Association of Churches urges Sarawakians to uphold unity, harmony in Christmas message

KUCHING (Dec 24): The Association of Churches in Sarawak (ACS) has called upon fellow Sarawakians, as well as Malaysians at large, to continue upholding the spirit of unity and harmony that has long defined the nation’s social fabric.

In his Christmas message, ACS chairman the Rt Rev Datuk Danald Jute said religious celebrations should never become a source of suspicion or division.

“Let us seize these opportunities to reaffirm our commitment to one another: Diversity is our strength and trust is the foundation of our peace and shared prosperity. Here, we don’t just live together – we belong together,” he said.

Danald, who is also the Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Kuching (Sarawak and Brunei Darussalam), said one of the most beautiful aspects of life in Sarawak is that festivals are never celebrated in isolation.

“Our Sarawak social fabric is woven from threads of mutual trust, acceptance, and respect,” he added.

The Bishop extended special thanks to Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg for his strong support towards all religious bodies and mission schools, specifically through the Other Religious Affairs Unit (Unifor).

He also noted that this year’s Christmas celebrations were especially meaningful due to the high-level participation of state leaders in recent events.

He highlighted the presence of Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar and his wife Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah Mohd Sanusi at a jointly hosted Christmas dinner on Dec 10.

“Their presence, along with heads and representatives of various religions, means a lot to the Christian community,” Danald said.

He also expressed gratitude for the attendance of state and federal leaders at the Joint Christmas Service on Dec 18 and various Christmas parades held across the state.

“The practice of our Christian faith does not build walls, but rather opens doors; doors of friendship and understanding, and doors of care and service for the poor and needy.

“As we celebrate Christmas – a season of hope, joy, peace and love – we commemorate and celebrate God’s great love and merey as God fulfilled His promise of old in the birth of His Son Jesus, the Saviour of the world! This same Jesus is the real reason for this season,” he said.