RM60 million Sandakan Islamic Centre to complete in December
Published on: Fri, Jul 25, 2025 Text Size: Walter presenting a memento to Tun Musa. Kota Kinabalu: Construction of the RM60m Sandakan Islamic Centre has reached 66pc completion and is expected to be fully finished by the end of December, said Sandakan Municipal Council President Walter Kenson. The modern complex, inspired by Sabah Governor Tun Musa Aman, is scheduled to be operational in time for Hari Raya Aidilfitri next year, with a formal launch targeted for Hari Raya 2026. 'We're aiming to complete it by the end of this year so it can be fully used by next year's Hari Raya,' Walter told reporters following a courtesy visit to Tun Musa at Istana Seri Kinabalu on Thursday. He added that the design of the centre incorporates motifs and finishes from Uzbekistan, adapted to local Sabah aesthetics. 'The progress has been very positive. We've sought Tun's approval on several design elements, especially for the main prayer hall, the multipurpose hall, and the VIP lounge. 'Tun had requested that certain features from Uzbekistan be integrated into these key spaces in harmony with local designs,' Walter said. In a statement, Tun Musa Aman expressed satisfaction with the centre's steady progress, calling it a future landmark of Islamic development in Sabah's east coast. 'This centre will serve not only as a place of worship and education, but also as a unifying hub for multi-ethnic and multi-faith communities through an inclusive and harmonious approach to dakwah,' he said. He also extended his gratitude to all involved, especially the Sabah Islamic Religious Affairs Department (Jheains) and the State Government, for their commitment to uplifting the ummah and broader community welfare. The project began in 2017 on a 5.2-hectare site along Jalan Sungai Kayu, Sandakan. However, it faced several delays due to the Covid-19 pandemic and political instability in the state. Once completed, the centre will feature a range of facilities including a kindergarten, tahfiz school, administrative offices for JHEAINS, MUIS and Baitulmal, a multipurpose hall, and a main prayer hall capable of accommodating over 1,000 congregants. * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available.
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