Abang Johari: New St Peter's Church building a symbol of vision, resilience and faith
KUCHING: The Gothic-inspired St Peter's Church building in Padungan here, one of the most iconic buildings in the city, was officially opened today, five years after its construction commenced in 2019.
Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg said the church building is not just a place for prayer and reflection, it is a symbol of vision, resilience and deep-rooted faith.
"The presence of St Peter's Church among other religious houses in close proximity is a powerful testament to the religious harmony and unity that Sarawak is so proud to uphold," he said in his speech at the opening ceremony.
His speech was read by his deputy, Datuk Douglas Uggah Embas.
Abang Johari said Sarawakians are blessed to live in a land where mutual respect and peaceful coexistence are not mere aspirations, but a way of life.
"This church adds further beauty to that legacy and will undoubtedly be a feature tourism attraction in the years to come," he said.
"What is even more heartening is the spirit of togetherness that made this vision a reality."
He lauded the remarkable collaboration shown by the Catholic community, joined hand-in-hand by friends and supporters from other faiths and walks of life.
He said whether through generous funding or dedicated physical labour, this has truly been an exemplary showcase of what a united community can achieve.
He also said it is the shining model of how shared purpose and collective goodwill can give rise to greatness.
Later, Uggah, on behalf of the premier, handing over a RM1 million cheque to the church in further aid to the building fund.
The RM38-million church, which can accommodate up to 1,000 parishioners, first opened its doors for the midnight mass on Christmas Eve last year.
The new church also features an impressive collection of stained glasses that have been handmade and expertly designed by Italians, as well as incorporating the Brooke family crest and the Sarawak emblem in two stained glasses, along with local Dayak motifs showcasing the uniqueness of Sarawak's culture and history.
Thye church's history dated back to 1937 with the purchase of seven acres of swampland in Padungan by Monsignor Aloysius Hopfgartner to foster the growth of the local church.
With the availability of the land, he later initiated the construction of the church, which was completed in December 1949.
Since then, it had undergone several further developments by the 1960s to accommodate the growing congregation.
Present at the event were Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Dr Sim Kui Hian, Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development Minister Datuk Seri Dr Stephen Rundie, former federal minister Tan Sri Leo Moggie, Penang Cardinal Bishop Datuk Seri Sebastian Francis, Kuching Archbishop Datuk Dr Simon Poh, Melaka-Johor Diocese Bishop Berard Paul and St Peter's Church rector Father Vincent Chin.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Borneo Post
2 hours ago
- Borneo Post
St Peter's Church Padungan launches book chronicling legacy, architecture
Archbishop Poh (right) launches the 'Anchoring Tradition, Embracing Changes' coffee table book as Fr Chin (second right), along with editorial team members Donald and Marina, look on. – Photo by Chimon Upon KUCHING (June 28): A coffee table book titled 'Anchoring Tradition, Embracing Changes', chronicling the rich history and architectural evolution of St Peter's Church Padungan, was launched today during a ceremony that also marked the official opening of the parish's new church building. The book was unveiled by Roman Catholic Archbishop of Kuching Dato Dr Simon Poh, witnessed by St Peter's Church Rector Rev Fr Vincent Chin and editorial team members Donald Tan and Marina Tan. A cloth was lifted from the display copy to reveal the cover, symbolising the culmination of years of collective effort to preserve the parish's legacy in print. Described as both a visual and written testament to the church's journey, the book captures decades of faith, transformation, and architectural craftsmanship. In his 'Introduction & Feature Brief' of the new church, Fr Chin reflected on the design philosophy behind the building. 'Today marks a significant milestone for our parish as we officially open this new St Peter's Church – a house of God built with love, faith, and purpose. 'In designing this sacred space, we were guided by the principle of anchoring traditions, embracing change. It was Archbishop Emeritus John Ha who suggested we adopt a classic Neo-Gothic style – to root this church in timeless tradition. In contrast, our Cathedral of St Joseph speaks boldly of modernity. 'Together, they reflect the balance our Church seeks – grounded in the past, open to the future,' said Fr Chin. The book documents the history of St Peter's Church, Padungan, and highlights the building's architectural features and unique design elements. It stands as a product of the parish community's collective efforts — guided by the Parish Council and supported by the faithful — and as a living testament to God's grace at work in both Padungan and Bintawa. Copies were presented to Deputy Sarawak Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, who officiated the ceremony on behalf of Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg. The grand opening began with a ribbon-cutting ceremony by key dignitaries including Uggah; Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Prof Dr Sim Kui Hian; Archbishop Poh; Bishop of Penang, His Eminence Cardinal Dato Sri Sebastian Francis; Melaka-Johor Diocese's Right Reverend Bishop Bernard Paul; and Perbena Emas Sdn Bhd director James Ling, the project's main contractor. Fr Chin then led the symbolic opening of the church doors, welcoming parishioners and guests into the new sacred space. In a show of support, Uggah also presented a RM1 million cheque from the Sarawak government through the Unit for Other Religions (Unifor) to support the St Peter's Church Development Fund. The cheque was received by Archbishop Poh and Fr Chin, witnessed by Dr Sim and Unifor director Datuk Georgina Apphia Ngau. A musical highlight of the event featured 11-year-old organist Kai Laird performing a digital organ showcase, introduced with a technical explanation by Stephen Chin. The historic celebration concluded with lunch for invited guests, marking the beginning of a new chapter for one of Kuching's most cherished parishes. coffee table book Kuching simon poh St Peter's Church Padungan
Borneo Post
4 hours ago
- Borneo Post
Catholic community celebrates opening of St Peter's Church in Padungan
The impressive architecture and outer facade of St Peter's Church in Kuching. – Photo by Chimon Upon KUCHING (June 28): A deep sense of pride and gratitude filled the air today as members of the Catholic community celebrated the long-awaited opening of the new St Peter's Church in Padungan. For many, the event marked not only the completion of a much-needed house of worship, but also a testament to the growth, unity, and resilience of the local Catholic community. Lukas Sangkin Lukas Sangkin, 61, a church warden and private sector employee, said the new church fulfilled a long-standing hope among parishioners. 'The old building could no longer hold the growing number of worshippers. Sometimes we had to sit outside during Mass, exposed to the elements. 'Now, with this spacious and beautiful new church, we finally have a place we can gather in comfort,' he told reporters when met during the opening ceremony. Retiree Somin Jopi, 66, believes the church's potential extends beyond its role as a place of worship. Somin Jopi 'This is more than just a church — it could become a new religious tourism destination for Sarawak. Friends from near and far have already expressed interest in visiting. 'I think it will soon become a landmark we can all be proud of,' she shared. Teresa Julis, 65, a housewife who is active in the church's women's association, is optimistic that the new facility will encourage youth to become more involved in church activities. Teresa Julis 'With a proper and welcoming space like this, I believe it can inspire young people to reconnect with their faith and play a more active role in the community. 'I'm also proud to have been part of the team that helped make today's event a success,' she said. More than just a celebration, the launch of St Peter's Church reflects the Catholic community's unity, resilience, and shared vision for a stronger future — one rooted in faith, fellowship and service. Catholic community interview Religious St Peter's Church Padungan
New Straits Times
5 hours ago
- New Straits Times
Abang Johari: New St Peter's Church building a symbol of vision, resilience and faith
KUCHING: The Gothic-inspired St Peter's Church building in Padungan here, one of the most iconic buildings in the city, was officially opened today, five years after its construction commenced in 2019. Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg said the church building is not just a place for prayer and reflection, it is a symbol of vision, resilience and deep-rooted faith. "The presence of St Peter's Church among other religious houses in close proximity is a powerful testament to the religious harmony and unity that Sarawak is so proud to uphold," he said in his speech at the opening ceremony. His speech was read by his deputy, Datuk Douglas Uggah Embas. Abang Johari said Sarawakians are blessed to live in a land where mutual respect and peaceful coexistence are not mere aspirations, but a way of life. "This church adds further beauty to that legacy and will undoubtedly be a feature tourism attraction in the years to come," he said. "What is even more heartening is the spirit of togetherness that made this vision a reality." He lauded the remarkable collaboration shown by the Catholic community, joined hand-in-hand by friends and supporters from other faiths and walks of life. He said whether through generous funding or dedicated physical labour, this has truly been an exemplary showcase of what a united community can achieve. He also said it is the shining model of how shared purpose and collective goodwill can give rise to greatness. Later, Uggah, on behalf of the premier, handing over a RM1 million cheque to the church in further aid to the building fund. The RM38-million church, which can accommodate up to 1,000 parishioners, first opened its doors for the midnight mass on Christmas Eve last year. The new church also features an impressive collection of stained glasses that have been handmade and expertly designed by Italians, as well as incorporating the Brooke family crest and the Sarawak emblem in two stained glasses, along with local Dayak motifs showcasing the uniqueness of Sarawak's culture and history. Thye church's history dated back to 1937 with the purchase of seven acres of swampland in Padungan by Monsignor Aloysius Hopfgartner to foster the growth of the local church. With the availability of the land, he later initiated the construction of the church, which was completed in December 1949. Since then, it had undergone several further developments by the 1960s to accommodate the growing congregation. Present at the event were Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Dr Sim Kui Hian, Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development Minister Datuk Seri Dr Stephen Rundie, former federal minister Tan Sri Leo Moggie, Penang Cardinal Bishop Datuk Seri Sebastian Francis, Kuching Archbishop Datuk Dr Simon Poh, Melaka-Johor Diocese Bishop Berard Paul and St Peter's Church rector Father Vincent Chin.
