PADAWAN – The Padawan Subdistrict Christmas Celebration 2025 has been hailed as more than a religious event, serving as a powerful symbol of unity among churches of different denominations and reinforcing values of harmony and community spirit.
Sarawak Deputy Minister of Transport (Air and Road) and Mambong State Assemblyman Datuk Dr Jerip Susil officiated the celebration on Thursday, emphasising the broader role of churches beyond worship.
He described them as core institutions in shaping moral values, fostering togetherness, and ensuring social stability in Sarawak’s pluralistic society.
“The joint Christmas celebration involving various church denominations reflects the maturity and unity of the Christian community in Padawan,” he said.
He noted that participation from the Borneo Gospel Assembly, Methodist, Anglican, Catholic, and Evangelical churches demonstrated strong cooperation across differences, driven by community leadership and local organisations.
Dr Jerip further stressed the importance of strengthening church associations and coalitions as platforms for dialogue and understanding, ensuring that diversity is celebrated as a strength rather than a division.
He also expressed appreciation for the Other Religions Affairs Unit (UNIFOR), which plays a significant role in maintaining interfaith harmony in Sarawak.
In 2024 alone, UNIFOR allocated more than RM11 million to support houses of worship, including churches, temples, and shrines across the Mambong constituency, alongside assistance for educational institutions.
As part of the event, Dr Jerip presented Christmas donations to the needy in the Mambong area, underscoring the celebration’s focus on compassion and community welfare.
The gathering was attended by prominent figures including Datuk Ik Pahon Joyik, President of the Dayak Bidayuh National Association (DBNA), and Siburan District Officer Ranum Bari, alongside church leaders and community members.
The Padawan Christmas Celebration highlighted the role of faith-based institutions in promoting unity and inclusivity, while reinforcing Sarawak’s commitment to interfaith cooperation and community wellbeing.
