MEMBERS of the Sarawak Interfaith Council, comprising Buddhists, Sikhs, Hindus and Bahais, joined Christians in Kuching last night in a show of religious solidarity, seeking blessings for all Malaysians ahead of National Day.

Though the date of National Day can be a contentious subject in Sabah and Sarawak – should it be Malaya’s Independence Day on August 31 or Malaysia Day on September 16? – thousands attended the annual prayer service, which was conducted in multiple languages, at the Christian Ecumenical Worship Centre.

Deputy Chief Minister Douglas Uggah Embas, who was present, said the prayers were a testament to Sarawak folk’s patriotism, and love for peace and harmony.

Uggah, who heads the Unit for Other Religions in the state government, said the prayers were “a very healthy move” and good for everyone.

“I really appreciate this initiative by the Association Of Churches in Sarawak (ACS).”

Prayers were said for freedom and harmony, healing and reconciliation, the country’s king and leaders, and world peace.

The host for this year’s National Day prayer service was the Seventh Day Adventist Church, with the theme “For Your Great Name’s Sake”.

The service covered different themes of scripture readings and prayers, and was conducted in English, Bahasa Malaysia, Kayan, Bidayuh Bukar-Sadong, Bidayuh Salako, Iban and Mandarin.

Pastor Attie Gara of the host church led the prayers for freedom and harmony in English, while the prayers for healing and reconciliation were led by Pastor Ding Emang Jau of the Borneo Evangelical Mission in Kayan.

Gara prayed that lawmakers and leaders, particularly in Sarawak, would “continue to work harmoniously in upholding our religious freedom”, while Jau prayed for healing and reconciliation to build a better nation.

The prayers for the country’s leaders sought to have them empowered with wisdom so they could administer the nation well and ensure there would “always be peace and prosperity”.

Prior to the scripture readings and prayers, Uggah helped hoist the Jalur Gemilang during the singing of Negaraku, while state Education, Science and Technological Research Minister Michael Manyin hoisted the state flag during the singing of the state anthem.

All ACS branches in the state will hold a similar prayer service. – August 25, 2017.