KUCHING: Kota Sentosa assemblyman Wilfred Yap Sau Sin presented a Minor Rural Project (MRP) grant of RM15,000 and voiced full support for BEM Olive Garden’s efforts to upgrade its church facilities during the congregation’s fundraising dinner on Friday.
Held at the Christian Ecumenical Worship Centre (CEWC) in the ACS Building along Jalan Stampin, the dinner brought together church elders, pastors, community leaders and supporters from other denominations in a united show of faith and generosity.
“I wish to congratulate BEM Olive Garden for organising this fundraising dinner and for bringing together a diverse group of people,” said Yap in his speech.
The assemblyman acknowledged the church’s need to raise RM60,000 for building repairs, audiovisual upgrades and improved facilities.
He encouraged the church to submit an application to the Unit for Other Religions (UNIFOR) for partial funding and pledged to personally follow up on their behalf.
“For the repairs and audiovisual upgrades, please submit your application to UNIFOR. I will fully support and follow up on your behalf to ensure the funding comes through early,” he said.
Additionally, Yap increased his grant of RM10,000 to RM15,000 – allocating RM10,000 to the church fund and RM5,000 specifically for the women’s fellowship.
“Women often do so much behind the scenes, and they deserve recognition too. This RM5,000 is for your women’s fellowship to support their ministry,” he said.
He also called on churches to continue growing in faith and visibility, using public events like the Christmas parade to “share and show God”.
“If you have something great, you don’t keep it hidden. God is great – we need to show Him to the world, not hide Him,” Yap said.
The assemblyman also commended BEM Olive Garden’s outreach ministries, especially its care for the sick and underprivileged, and encouraged the congregation to keep serving the community.
The dinner was part of an ongoing effort by BEM Olive Garden to strengthen its facilities and continue its mission in Kota Sentosa and beyond.
