KANOWIT – Hidden deep in the greenery of Bawan, Kanowit, stands the Sacred Heart Chapel, a Catholic church that has stood firm for 127 years since its establishment in 1898. Known as the “Gem in the Jungle,” the chapel continues to be a place of faith, history, and unity for the community.
Between now and October 2025, the chapel is scheduled to receive 32 pilgrimage groups from across Sarawak and Sabah. One such group, consisting of 35 pilgrims, made their visit on September 15, marking the ongoing flow of faithful visitors eager to experience the chapel’s rich history and spiritual presence.
The Sacred Heart Chapel is among the oldest Catholic churches in Sarawak, originally founded by the Mill Hill Missionaries. They played a crucial role in spreading Catholicism to the Iban and other local communities during the late 19th century. Today, the chapel remains a symbol of faith and resilience, preserving its original architectural design despite being more than a century old.
For generations, the Iban Catholic community has looked to the chapel as a spiritual anchor. Beyond its religious role, the chapel is also a cultural heritage site, reminding the faithful of their forefathers’ journey of faith.
In conjunction with the Jubilee Year 2025, the chapel has hosted various events such as the Gawai Misa, Walk of Hope, and cultural performances. These activities brought together local villagers and Catholic communities from across Sarawak and even beyond, creating a space for unity, cultural appreciation, and spiritual renewal.
According to En. Mathew Madau, a social media communication leader for St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, Kanowit, and the Sacred Heart Chapel SocCom, the ongoing pilgrimages show that the chapel continues to inspire not only the local Catholic community but also visitors from other parts of Malaysia.
“This chapel is not just a building; it is a living testimony of faith and heritage. It carries the memory of our ancestors and continues to strengthen our faith today,” said Mathew.
The Sacred Heart Chapel in Bawan remains a cherished destination, blending faith, history, and culture, proving that its value endures across generations. – Diocese of Sibu
