“1Malaysia” signifies the unity of all races living in this country. Though we’ve had a bit of ups and downs due to misunderstandings, ultimately, we all uphold the 1Malaysia value well.
The most recent example of this is how people of different religions and races came together to help repair a chapel in Kampung Sinalapak, Sabah.
Source: IKBN Kinarut Sabah
According to Coconuts, the St Paul’s Chapel was somewhat falling apart. However, a group of Malaysians came together, regardless of their own beliefs, just to help restore this place of worship.
Even Muslims from the Kinarut Youth Skill Training Institute (IKBN) joined in on the ‘gotong-royong‘ to prove that there is no discord among the community.
Trainees and even higher ups from IKBN actively took part in the repair works. Deputy director Suhaidi Mustar and assistant director of student affairs Fatimah Abdul Rahman were among the people who helped.
Source: IKBN Kinarut Sabah
They worked alongside the Kampung Sinalapak’s head, Dunsim Gimbatu and the chapel’s catechist, Rosenani Kiting among many others.
All the wonderful volunteers gathered to fix a new roof in the corridor, add a fresh coat of paint, and install new fans to the chapel.
During the officiation of of the community clean-up, the local assemblyman Joniston Bankuai shared his joy in seeing the harmony among the people.
He told the press,
“It is really heartening to see them (Muslim trainees and officials of Kinarut IKBN) taking part in the gotong royong.”
Source: IKBN Kinarut Sabah
Joniston also expressed that this act of unity is a strong statement, proving that Sabah’s religious freedom is not under threat at all.
Catechist Rosenani was truly grateful to everyone who joined in on this community project, especially the IKBN Kinarut.
What a heartwarming thing to see! We’re so happy Malaysians are united and peaceful no matter what!
Also read: Penang Surau That Sheltered Non-Muslims Also Took in Dogs Affected by Floods
