SRI AMAN – The Sarawak Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industries and Performing Arts conducted a site visit to Saint Paul’s Church in Banting, Lingga, Sri Aman Division, as part of ongoing efforts to identify and assess heritage sites under the Sarawak Heritage Ordinance 2019.
Built in 1859, St Paul’s Church is recognised as one of the oldest churches in Sarawak. The building holds significant historical value, particularly in relation to the early development of the Christian community and the settlement history of the Lingga area.
The visit was aimed at evaluating the church’s current condition and exploring strategies for preservation and conservation.
The session was attended by representatives from the Sarawak Museum Department, Sri Aman Resident’s Office, and Lingga District Office.
Engagements were also held with the Anglican Diocese, community leaders, local residents, and St Paul’s School. Media outlets including Borneo Talk and TVS were present to document and promote the historic site.
Discussions during the visit focused on the structural state of the church, its cultural significance, and the most suitable approaches for conservation.
Officials highlighted the importance of adopting a collaborative and community-based strategy to ensure that preservation efforts are inclusive and reflect the needs of stakeholders.
The Ministry emphasised that heritage preservation is not only about safeguarding physical structures but also about maintaining the cultural narratives and community identity tied to such sites.
St Paul’s Church, with its long-standing presence, represents a vital link to Sarawak’s religious and social history.
Community leaders expressed support for the initiative, noting that conservation of the church would benefit both local residents and visitors.
Preserving the site is expected to enhance tourism potential in the Lingga area while ensuring that future generations can appreciate its historical significance.
The visit forms part of Sarawak’s broader heritage agenda, which seeks to balance development with cultural preservation.
By engaging multiple stakeholders, the government aims to ensure that conservation efforts are sustainable and aligned with the values of local communities.
