SCAC has successfully organized an inter-religious Christmas Open House Gathering in Masland Methodist Church, Sibu, from 11am to 1pm on 21 December, 2015. Its purpose was to foster better friendship and connection with people of other faiths.

The Annual Conference Associate Lay Leader, Mr. Hii Chang Kee, who is also the newly appointed Resident of Sibu, led the ice-breaking session, asking the leaders to introduce themselves. There were 62 people turning up for this event, including 10 Imam and Muslim friends, 14 Buddhist leaders, 6 Sikh leaders, 2 leaders from Chinese folk religions, 4 Roman Catholic friends and Archbishop, 2 Anglican friends, 8 BEM friends, 4 ACS members, 2 SIAC friends and President, and 10 representatives from SCAC.

In his welcoming speech, President Su Chii Ann remarked that it was the first time when such a gathering took place during Christmas season in the history of Sarawak, especially in Sibu. He said, “This gathering not only articulates that we are truly Malaysians, living together harmoniously in a multi-religious, multi-cultural and multi-racial society, but also brings about two significant meanings of Christmas. As Jesus is the Prince of peace, he wants us to bring the message of peace and harmony to all people – peace with God and harmony with people. So today, we are here to embrace multi-religious understanding and to promote multiracial harmony. No one can practice religion as a lone-ranger. It must be practiced and expressed through our relationship with God, with one another and with the community. Today’s gathering is just a humble beginning of such kind of relationship.”

The gathering sang three Christmas songs and ended with benediction by President Su. Then, a buffet lunch was served. Those who were present felt excited and appreciative to have this gathering. They also expressed their hope to have more gatherings, and join hands to render social services, hold dialogues and organize festive season visitations in time to come.

By Rev Su Chii Ann
President of SCAC