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Dr Sim (second left) symbolically hands over the funds to Chin. Also seen are Poh and Georgina. – Photo by Roystein Emmor
KUCHING (Oct 28): The new St Peter’s Catholic Church building in Padungan here needs an additional RM12 million in funds, said Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian.
The Deputy Premier said Sarawakians should do their part to help support this symbol of heritage and community sanctuary.
He noted that the total construction cost of the new building is RM38 million, with RM26 million raised through public contributions and state government funding via the Unit for Other Religions (Unifor), leaving a shortfall of RM12 million.
“Nowadays, after Covid-19, everything has increased by one-third. We appeal to everyone to help cover the remaining shortfall of RM12 million.
“Sarawakians should step forward to support our Sarawak churches, including other places of worship.
“I believe that if we work together, we can quickly resolve this, as the building is almost completed and ready to move in,” he told reporters after presenting an RM1 million contribution from Unifor today.
A view of the interior of the new church building. — Photo by Roystein Emmor
He said the new church building will serve the local community and become a distinctive landmark including for tourism.
“This new building isn’t the usual tourist spot—you don’t come here to chit-chat like in a market; you come here to pray,” he said.
Noting the conflict, uncertainty, and challenges of today, Dr Sim stressed religious institutions play a crucial role in providing solace and support.
“This new building will provide a sanctuary for those who come, a place of peace and healing. I urge everyone to help as this is a Sarawak church,” he said.
In fostering inclusivity, aligning with the pillars of Sarawak’s Post Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, Dr Sim urged Sarawakians, regardless of race or religion, to remain united and progress together.
“This is part of inclusivity, ensuring that no one is left behind. The church doesn’t get left behind, the mosque doesn’t get left behind, the temples don’t get left behind, and the people don’t get left behind.
“We are on a path to progress together. If we remain united, we will move in a very positive direction,” he said.
Chin discusses a feature of the new church building with Dr Sim. At left is Poh.
St Peter’s rector Rev Vincent Chin said the new church will be officially opened on June 29, 2025 with a mass at 7pm coinciding with the Feast of Saints Peter and Paul.
“By Nov 15 this year, we hope that everything will be ready, and we will proceed with an inspection from the Fire and Rescue Department, as well as an application to Kuching South City Council (MBKS) for temporary occupational permit (OP).
“Our hope is that if everything is ready and we receive temporary OP, we will hold our first mass here for Christmas Midnight Mass.
“After that, we will continue to use the space and improve upon whatever needs attention,” he said.
Contributions to the St Peter’s Development Fund can be made via Maybank account number 511038627401.
Among those present were Unifor director Datuk Georgina Apphia Ngau and Archbishop Datuk Simon Poh.
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