KUCHING: The Association of Churches in Sarawak (ACS) has called on Sarawakians and Malaysians to continue upholding unity, mutual trust and harmony.
In its Christmas message, ACS chairman Rev. Datuk Danald Jute said religious celebrations should serve as bridges that strengthen understanding rather than create division.
He also said Christmas, which commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ, is a season of hope, joy, peace and love that resonates beyond the Christian community.
“One beautiful thing about Sarawak is that we do not celebrate our festivals alone. Our social fabric is woven from threads of mutual trust, acceptance and respect,” he said.
Danald, who is also the Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Kuching (Sarawak and Brunei Darussalam), expressed appreciation for the strong show of interfaith solidarity during this year’s Christmas celebrations.
He said the presence of Head of State, Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, and Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah Mohd Sanusi at the jointly hosted Christmas dinner on Dec. 10 was deeply meaningful to the Christian community.
“Their presence, together with heads and representatives of various religions, means a great deal to us,” he said.
Danald also thanked state and federal leaders who attended the Joint Christmas Service on Dec. 18, as well as Christmas parades held across the state.
He further expressed profound gratitude to Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg for his continued support of all religious bodies, including mission schools, notably through the Unit for Other Religions (UNIFOR).
Touching on the role of faith in Sarawak’s multiracial society, Danald said the Christian faith, like other faiths in the state, is a pillar of peace and unity.
“The practice of our Christian faith does not build walls, but opens doors – doors of friendship and understanding, and doors of care and service for the poor and needy,” he said.
As Sarawak marks the birth of the ‘Prince of Peace’, he urged the public to reaffirm their commitment to one another, stressing that diversity remains the state’s strength.
“Here, we do not just live together – we belong together,” he said.
The Association of Churches in Sarawak wished all Christians a blessed Merry Christmas and everyone a grace-filled New Year 2026.
