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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.
