KUCHING: Kampung Serikin near Bau will have an iconic building once a gothic-style yet contemporary St Francis Xavier church is constructed in the village.
Tasik Biru assemblyman Datuk Henry Harry Jinep said the cost of the church is about RM800,000 and construction work will commence early next year.
“The construction will be done in stages depending on the availability of funds,” he told New Sarawak Tribune on Sunday (Nov 29).
He said a grant of RM100,000 has been allocated for the construction of the church, on top of another RM100,000 from Unit for Other Religions (Unifor) that was given last year.
“The church committee will also have to work hard and diligently to raise funds for the construction of the building. It will definitely take a while to realise its completion, but we are hopeful that people are generous enough to support this initiative,” he said.
The new church will be able to accommodate up to 800 parishioners.
“Currently, the old church which was built in 1987 at a cost of RM20,000 is getting over crowded with the increasing number of church goers,” he said, adding that the present church can only seat 300 congregation.
He pointed out that the construction of the new church was timely as Serikin is located at an international gateway.
“The village needs a new facelift in tandem with the idea of making Serikin a Border Town, a more conducive and of international brand,” he said.
Henry said the present church would not be demolished but would be converted into Sunday school and community hall.
“We also want to thank the Sarawak government through Unifor for being very supportive towards our cause and we remain committed in ensuring we achieve our dreams for the betterment of the community and to continue to glorify the good Lord Jesus,” he said.
