SRI AMAN – The official blessing and opening of the All Saints Chapel Gua parsonage has been hailed as a milestone for both the local congregation and the wider community in the Gua area. The event, held on Saturday, was officiated by Bukit Begunan Assemblyman Datuk Mong Dagang and blessed by The Right Reverend Bishop Aeries Sumping Jingan.
The new priest’s residence was constructed under the Rural Transformation Programme (RTP) with an allocation of RM300,000. Work commenced on 11 October 2023 and reached completion exactly a year later, on 10 October 2024.
The project provides a dedicated home for clergy, while also serving as a symbol of the government’s commitment to improving facilities for rural communities.
Datuk Mong described the initiative as part of his broader efforts to strengthen the Christian faith in the area and to ensure that church members have access to better infrastructure.
He encouraged residents to remain active in religious activities, particularly during weekends, as a way of reinforcing moral values and guiding the younger generation.
“The strength of a community comes from a strong family and education,” he remarked, underlining the importance of faith and learning as foundations for social development.
In addition to the chapel project, Datuk Mong also presented Minor Rural Project (MRP) funds to several associations and organisations. These allocations were aimed at supporting grassroots initiatives and strengthening community resilience.
The recipients included:
- Bukit Begunan Tuai Rumah Association – RM20,000
- Malaysian Armed Forces Veterans Association (PVATM) Sri Aman Branch – RM10,000
- Anglican Women Fellowship St Luke Church – RM10,000
- St Luke Church Choir – RM3,000
- SKPIG Teachers Association – RM10,000
- Selepong Association – RM14,000
The distribution of funds reflects the government’s ongoing strategy to empower local organisations, improve facilities, and foster unity among residents.
The All Saints Chapel Gua parsonage complements earlier investments in the chapel itself, which has also benefited from allocations under the Unit for Other Religions (UNIFOR) for upgrades and maintenance.
These combined efforts highlight the state’s commitment to ensuring that religious institutions in rural areas are well supported, both spiritually and structurally.
For the people of Gua, the new parsonage is more than just a residence for clergy. It represents continuity of faith, a centre for community engagement, and a tangible step towards balanced rural development in Sri Aman.
