Christian Federation of Malaysia commends Sarawak's model of peaceful multi-religious and multi-racial coexistence

KUCHING, July 28 2026 – Premier Abang  Johari Openg today received a courtesy call from leaders of the Christian Federation of Malaysia (CFM) at the Satria Pertiwi Complex, Petra Jaya. 

Caption: Christian Federation of Malaysia paying a courtesy call on Premier Abang Johari Openg

The visit reflected the longstanding relationship between the Sarawak government and Christian communities in Malaysia while providing an opportunity to exchange views on Sarawak's development, religious harmony and issues of mutual interest.

Led by CFM chairman Reverend Dr Eu Hong Seng, the delegation described the meeting as cordial and constructive.

The discussions focused on Sarawak's development progress, the state's model of peaceful multi-religious and multi-racial coexistence, as well as the role of the Unit for Other Religions (UNIFOR) in supporting non-Islamic religions and promoting mutual respect among diverse faith communities.

The delegation commended the premier's progressive vision and strong leadership, noting that these had contributed significantly to Sarawak's socio-economic advancement and its position as one of the country's leading economies.

Both sides also exchanged views on current national developments and the positive role Sarawak could continue to play in fostering unity, stability and national progress.

The engagement further highlighted a shared commitment to continued dialogue on matters relating to interfaith understanding, national harmony and community development.

The CFM delegation also welcomed the opportunity to be in Kuching for its executive eommittee meeting and praised Sarawak's culture of inclusiveness, mutual respect and acceptance.

Present at the courtesy call were Deputy Preminer Douglas Uggah, CFM vice chairman Archbishop Julian Leow Beng Kim and Bishop Danald Jute; assistant honorary treasurer Archbishop Simon Poh; executive secretary, Reverend Andy Chi Cheng Khee; and representatives from the Catholic Bishops' Conference of Malaysia, the Council of Churches of Malaysia and the National Evangelical Christian Fellowship, together with other members of the CFM Executive Committee.

The delegation reaffirmed its hope that Sarawak's example of harmony and mutual respect would continue to inspire greater unity throughout Malaysia.

Malaysia's largest ecobrick seahorse sculpture in Miri unveiled

MIRI, July 28 2026: Sarawak created history after successfully building the largest seahorse sculpture in Malaysia which used 2,137 ecobricks contributed by over 1,500 individuals.

Caption: Transport Minister Lee Kim Shin speaking at the unveiling of the ecobrick sculpture seahorse

Transport Minister Lee Kim Shin said that the success of producing the 3.7 metre high and four metre wide sculpture reflected the strength and spirit of the Miri community’s cooperation in making environmental initiatives a success.

He said achievement is not the result of the efforts of a single individual, but instead resulted from the commitment and cooperation of more than 1,500 participants consisting of students, community bodies, business organisations and the general public.

"We must continue to educate the public about proper waste disposal methods and improve waste management. In developed countries and cities, waste is separated by type such as bottles, plastic and paper to facilitate the recycling process," he said.

He was speaking at the handover of ecobrick sculpture to Miri City Council at Miri Public Park this morning.

Lee said the handover of the sculpture marked an important achievement in raising environmental awareness and supporting the aspiration of making Miri a greener and more sustainable city.

The Senadin Assemblyman said that the Tzu Chi Foundation has not only been active in humanitarian and welfare work, but has also played a crucial role in raising public awareness of the importance of reducing, reusing and recycling waste.

He also reminded the community to pay serious attention to the issue of uncontrolled garbage disposal, as it can cause blockages in the drainage system and contribute to flash floods.

He said garbage found on the beach does not only originate from the sea, but some of it originates from the community itself when garbage is thrown into drains, flowing into rivers before finally reaching the sea and being washed back onto the beach.

In a related development, Lee shared that the current location is part of a new area that has been developed in Miri Public Park and is known as Eco Cliff Park.

“The area possesses an important educational and geological value because its natural geological structure can be utilised as a learning location for geology and petroleum engineering students.

“Additionally, the development of Eco Cliff Park was implemented through a special allocation of RM1.5 million obtained from Premier Abang Johari Openg to improve recreational and educational facilities in the area.

“Among the next plans include the development of a new eco park in the area as well as the 'Green Wall of Miri City' concept,” he said.

Don't demolish old buildings with historical values, premier advises owners

KUCHING:, July 28 2026: Premier Abang Johari Openg has urged owners not to demolish their old buildings with historical values, advising that they should, instead, make efforts and renovate their properties without affecting their original identity.

 Caption: Premier Abang Johari Openg  speaking to reporters after attending a function 

He said that dilapidated heritage buildings do not necessarily need to be demolished or replaced with new buildings, but can instead be restored to be given new functions.

He said such approach will allow historic buildings to continue to be utilised while ensuring that their heritage values remain preserved.

“If the owner wishes to change the building for a specific function, why not? We encourage it, as long as the main structure of the heritage building is maintained,” he told reporters today.

The premier said the redevelopment of Wisma Elica is an example of how an old building can be restored for a new use without losing its original identity.

He said the state government is still negotiating with the federal government for the take-over of the old Post Office building in Jalan Tun Openg with a view of renovating and preserving it.

HYe added there are many old buildings with historical values in Kuching that need to be preserved and restored.

He also referred to the Sultan Abdul Samad Building in Kuala Lumpur and the Fullerton Hotel in Singapore as examples of heritage buildings that have been successfully restored while maintaining their historical value.

Abang Johari said that efforts will continue to conserve and utilise heritage buildings can contribute to more sustainable urban development without neglecting the historical value that is the identity of a place.