Gurdwara Sahib Miri gets RM500,000 Unifor boost for renovation works
Ting (sixth left) hands over the cheque from Unifor to Gurmokh, as others look on.
MIRI (June 21): Gurdwara Sahib Miri has received an allocation of RM500,000 from the Unit for Other Religions (Unifor) to support its ongoing renovation works.
The cheque was handed over by State Deputy Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Datuk Sebastian Ting during a brief ceremony at the temple yesterday.
In his remarks, the Piasau assemblyman also reminded recipients to utilise the allocation without delay and to ensure that all costs and expenditures would be properly documented.
'Make sure to use the funds and report what has been done, so there is a proper record.
'If everything is in order, it will be easier for them (Unifor) to consider future applications,' he advised.
The Sikh community in Miri has roots dating back to the 1880s, with the original 'gurdwara' (Sikh temple) built in 1919, and the current building completed in 1975.
Today, it continues to serve as a place of worship and learning for the Sikh families in the area.
According to the project director Gurvir Singh Sandhu, the current upgrading initiative was approved in 2021, with physical works kicking off in 2022.
'The renovation works are now about 80 per cent complete and are expected to finish by early July,' said Gurvir.
Among the new features being introduced are Dayak-inspired motifs on the glass panels by the entrance, reflecting the community's appreciation for local cultures and Sarawak's multi-ethnic landscape.
Ting also noted that the Sikh community here had received a total of RM2.6 million in Unifor funding over the years for various phases of upgrading works on the temple.
'In recent years, the temple has undergone various improvements including upgrades to the 'langar' hall, kitchen facilities, and space expansion to accommodate major religious events.'
The ceremony concluded with Ting doing a brief walkaround of the newly-renovated areas, accompanied by Gurvir, Gurdwara Sahib Miri president Gurmokh Singh, and the committee members. allocation Gurdwara Sahib Miri lead renovation Sebastian Ting Unifor
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