PADAWAN – The church plays a vital role beyond being a place of worship; it serves as a unifying force, a center of moral guidance, and an educational foundation for rural communities, according to Deputy Minister of Transport Sarawak, Datuk Dr Jerip Susil.
Speaking at the Dinner Ceremony of Saint Alban Church in Kampung Sitang, held at the Kampung Sitong Multipurpose Hall on Saturday, Dr Jerip emphasized the church’s important role in fostering community development, especially in remote areas such as Sitang.
“I believe that wherever there is a church, a society is built. The church nurtures values and education that help shape the future generation,” he said.
During the event, the Member of the State Assembly (ADUN) for Mambont also announced a government allocation of RM50,000 to support the religious activities and further development of Saint Alban’s Church.
The funding aims to strengthen the church’s role as a community hub, facilitating social cohesion and encouraging active participation among residents in Kampung Sitang and surrounding areas.
This initiative underscores the Sarawak Government’s recognition of faith institutions as integral to rural development and community unity.