SIBU – The presence of various places of worship in close proximity in Sibu stands as a living testament to the harmony and unity among the town’s multi-religious community.
Sarawak Deputy Minister of Education, Innovation and Talent Development, Datuk Dr Annuar Rapaee, said Sibu is unique for having mosques, Gurdwaras, temples and St. Mary’s Church all within the same area, showing that residents of different faiths can live side by side peacefully.
“The construction of the new Sri Maha Mariamman Sibu temple is a special addition to our town. Its architecture is unique, and I believe this is the first temple of its kind in Sibu,” he said.
Dr Annuar expressed hope that the temple would become a point of interest for all communities, much like the town’s iconic mosque, which is visited by people from all walks of life.
He made the remarks when speaking to reporters after presenting the Nangka State Constituency Small Rural Project (MRP) grant to the Sibu Sikh Temple (Gurdwara Sahib) and the Sibu Hindu Temple Association (Sri Maha Mariamman) on Sunday.
Highlighting the importance of mutual respect, Dr Annuar, who is also the Nangka assemblyman, stressed that respecting other religions is a key value despite differences in belief.
“Believing in our own religion does not mean we cannot respect other faiths. Our teachings do not encourage intolerance,” he explained.
On the temple’s funding, he confirmed it came from the MRP allocation under the Nangka constituency.
“To mark this new place, we must have a grand celebration and invite everyone to join. That is why, on Deepavali in October, we will hold a large ceremony here so other religions and communities can come and see,” he added.
The event was attended by Sibu Sikh Temple President Ranjit Singh, Secretary Kamla Devi, and Sibu Sri Maha Mariamman Temple President Manogaran Krishnasamy, along with about 20 attendees. — UKAS EDITION
