SIBU: Parents must look beyond providing for their children’s physical needs and instead focus on nurturing character, faith and unconditional love in an increasingly complex world.
Deputy Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government Datuk Michael Tiang Ming Tee, who is also Pelawan assemblyman described parenthood as “the hardest job that nobody gives you a manual for,” acknowledging the uncertainties, sacrifices and challenges that come with raising children.
“Some days you feel like you’re doing everything right. Other days, you wonder if you’re getting anything right at all,” he said at the inaugural Association of Churches (ACS) Sibu Branch’s Parents Night held at a prominent hotel here on Saturday (July 4.
Drawing from the evening’s theme, “Be Faithful” based on Revelation 2:10, Tiang said faithfulness remains the foundation of strong families — faithfulness to God, to one’s spouse, to children and to the promises parents make for future generations.
“Our role as parents is not just about providing food, shelter and education. It is about being a steady presence. It is about showing up even when it’s hard. It is about teaching our children what it means to love, to forgive and to trust in God,” he said.
He noted that modern parents face challenges unlike those of previous generations, including the influence of social media, digital distractions and a culture that often measures success by wealth and status rather than character.
Against this backdrop, he said initiatives such as ACS Parents Night are more than social gatherings.
“This is not just a dinner. It is a declaration that we are in this together. It reminds us that we are not alone, and that as a community of faith, we share the responsibility of raising our children in love and in truth,” he said.
Tiang also praised the collaboration among churches from different Christian denominations in organising the event, describing it as a reflection of unity despite denominational differences.
He said the participation of Methodist Iban Church (SIAC), Borneo Evangelical Mission (BEM), Catholic, Anglican and Methodist Church (SCAC) churches demonstrated that what unites Christians is greater than what divides them.
“We share one faith. We share one Lord. And we share one mission — to build strong families for a stronger Sarawak,” he said.
Addressing parents directly, Tiang paid tribute to their often unseen sacrifices, saying children may not always express their appreciation but they recognise their parents’ love and dedication.
“Thank you for your sacrifices. Thank you for your prayers. Thank you for showing up. Your children see you. They see your love. Even when they don’t say it, they see it. And one day, they will understand,” he said.
He also encouraged church leaders to continue supporting families, describing parenting not merely as a private responsibility but as a spiritual calling that requires guidance, prayer and community support.
To the younger generation present, Tiang urged them to honour and pray for their parents despite their imperfections.
“They are not perfect. But they love you more than you will ever know,” he said.
Tiang also called on the community to continue strengthening families so that children would grow up knowing how to love God, love their neighbours and live lives marked by integrity.
“May God bless every family present here. May He strengthen every marriage. And may His faithfulness be our example, always,” he added.
Among those present were ACS Deputy Chairman Rev Bonnie Sedau, ACS Sibu Branch Chairman Pastor Thomas Anyi and ACS Sibu Branch Secretary Eta Ting Ming Na.
