KUCHING: The birthday celebration of the Nine Emperor Gods at the Kuching Sungai Apong Nine Emperor Gods Palace was marked with prayers, cultural reverence and reflections on community development.
Speaking at the event at a local restaurant here yesterday, Kuching South City Council (MBKS) mayor Datuk Wee Hong Seng expressed appreciation to the committee for the opportunity to join the community in prayer, describing the occasion as both meaningful and uplifting.
He highlighted that the belief in the Nine Emperor Gods is deeply rooted within the Chinese community and extends beyond religious worship, embodying values such as integrity, righteousness and the protection of the people.
These principles, he said, should also guide public service and city governance.
“The Nine Emperor Gods Palace is not only a place of worship, but a stabilising force within the community. It brings peace of mind, strengthens neighbourhood unity and adds warmth to society,” he said.
He also commended it for translating compassion into action over the years, citing its efforts in assisting underprivileged students, supporting vulnerable families and responding to community needs through charitable initiatives.
Touching on urban development, he emphasised that progress should not be measured solely by physical infrastructure or economic figures, but by how well a city cares for its most vulnerable groups.
“A mature city, must balance systems with compassion,” he said.
Reflecting on Sungai Apong’s development, he raised concerns over current challenges facing the community, including high-density living conditions, fire safety risks and public safety management.
These issues, he said, require coordinated and systemic solutions rather than fragmented measures.
He called for unity within the community and constructive engagement with the state government to ensure stable and long-term support.
In addition, he encouraged religious organisations to complete formal registration processes, noting that institutional recognition would allow them to access rightful support and funding, while ensuring the sustainability of charitable and community services.
Also present were Padawan Municipal Council chairman, Tan Kai and chairman of the Jiu Huang temple, Kuan Jaw San.
