KUCHING – Senior religious leaders and government officials convened at the UNIFOR Complex on Wednesday to discuss strategies for enhancing interfaith cooperation and community well-being.
The engagement session brought together the Executive Committee of the Christian Federation of Malaysia (CFM) and representatives from the Unit for Other Religions (UNIFOR), marking a significant step in strengthening institutional ties between the state agency and the Christian community.
Held on 29 July 2026, the meeting served as a platform for constructive dialogue on matters of mutual interest.
The primary focus was on preserving religious harmony, fostering mutual respect, and ensuring the continued welfare of diverse communities across Sarawak.
The session underscored the importance of open communication channels in maintaining the state’s reputation as a beacon of unity in diversity.
Dato Georgina Apphia Ngau, Director of UNIFOR, hosted the delegation during their official visit to the state capital.
She emphasised the role of such engagements in building trust and understanding between different faith groups.
The discussions allowed both parties to exchange views on contemporary challenges and opportunities related to religious administration and community support services.
A key highlight of the visit was a guided tour of the UNIFOR Complex. During the tour, the CFM delegation was briefed on the specific functions and mandates of the unit.
UNIFOR plays a crucial role in supporting Houses of Worship for non-Islamic religions and assisting mission schools throughout Sarawak.
The briefing provided insights into how the agency facilitates regulatory compliance while ensuring that religious institutions can operate smoothly and contribute positively to society.
The visit also offered an opportunity to showcase Sarawak’s unique model of interfaith cooperation. Officials highlighted how this framework has successfully fostered peace and understanding among people of various beliefs.
By sharing best practices and operational guidelines, UNIFOR aims to replicate this success in other areas, ensuring that religious freedom is exercised within a context of social responsibility and communal harmony.
The Christian Federation of Malaysia was represented by a high-level delegation comprising leaders from its three constituent bodies: the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Malaysia (CBCM), the Council of Churches of Malaysia (CCM), and the National Evangelical Christian Fellowship (NECF).
This broad representation ensured that perspectives from various Christian denominations were included in the dialogue.
Leading the delegation was Rev. Dr. Eu Hong Seng, who serves as the Chairman of the CFM Executive Committee. He was joined by Vice Chairmen Most Reverend Archbishop Julian Leow Beng Kim and The Right Reverend Bishop Datuk Danald Jute.
The team also included Ms. Rita Sabrina Wong as Honorary Secretary, Dr. Khoo Kay Hup as Assistant Honorary Secretary, and Most Reverend Archbishop Dato Dr. Simon Poh as Assistant Honorary Treasurer.
Other notable attendees included Rev. Andy Chi Cheng Khee, the Executive Secretary, along with several Executive Committee members such as Canon Andrew Khoo Chin Hock, Rev. Philip Lok Oi Peng, Rev. Foo Moy Peng, Fr. Xavier Andrew, and Fr. Dominic Tan.
Their presence demonstrated the collective commitment of the Christian community to engaging with state authorities on issues affecting their congregations and the wider public.
Following the formal discussions and tour, the participants gathered for a fellowship lunch at the Hilton Kuching.
This informal setting allowed for further relationship-building and reinforced the spirit of collaboration established during the morning session.
The meal provided a chance for leaders to connect on a personal level, strengthening the warm friendship that exists between UNIFOR and the Christian community.
Both parties reaffirmed their dedication to building bridges of understanding. They agreed that continuous engagement is essential for addressing emerging social dynamics and maintaining the peaceful coexistence that characterises Sarawakian society.
The outcome of the meeting is expected to lead to more coordinated efforts in community development and religious outreach programmes.
This engagement reflects the ongoing commitment of the Sarawak Government to support all religious communities through dedicated agencies like UNIFOR.
By facilitating regular dialogue with groups such as the CFM, the state ensures that policies remain inclusive and responsive to the needs of its multi-faith population.
The successful conclusion of the session highlights the potential for collaborative governance in promoting social stability and national unity.
