(Bintulu, 13th) - Datuk Seri Stephen Lundi, Sarawak Minister of Food Industry, Primary Industries, and Regional Development, has expressed grave concern over the shortage of land for Christian cemeteries in Bintulu and surrounding areas. These cemeteries have reportedly reached full capacity.
He pointed out that this issue cannot be delayed and must draw the attention of the whole society with prompt action, including community leaders, local authorities, and district administration departments.
"Now, I find that our Christian cemeteries are full. Therefore, we must take action."
"I hope the Temenggong and all relevant parties can address this issue as soon as possible because it is something we cannot ignore," he said.
Lundi raised this issue while speaking at the 2025 Sibu Borneo Dayak Festival celebration held at a well-known restaurant in Bintulu last night.
He added that the current situation has brought difficulties to the community, especially when someone passes away, and the family cannot bring the body back to the longhouse for a final farewell.
"Many have faced difficulties after a loved one passes away because they cannot bring the body back to the longhouse. In the end, they have to conduct the final farewell at the cemetery located at the 5th kilometer of the Bintulu-Sibu road."
"This is a challenge that needs swift and systematic resolution," he stated. The Kemena area representative also noted that the solution requires careful planning.
He thus urged the district office to develop a comprehensive action plan, including identifying new cemetery locations and considering facilities like chapels suitable for all communities.
"Whether we are Catholics, Christians, or other ethnic groups, we all need to arrange properly. This relates to our dignity and responsible social management."
Lundi further emphasized that the cemetery issue is not just a religious problem but reflects the community's concern for basic needs and its respect and planning capabilities for the deceased.
During last night's event, the attractive "Pagit Kumang" activity was also held, adding a festive atmosphere to the 2025 Sibu Borneo Dayak Festival celebration.
He pointed out that this issue cannot be delayed and must draw the attention of the whole society with prompt action, including community leaders, local authorities, and district administration departments.
"Now, I find that our Christian cemeteries are full. Therefore, we must take action."
"I hope the Temenggong and all relevant parties can address this issue as soon as possible because it is something we cannot ignore," he said.
Lundi raised this issue while speaking at the 2025 Sibu Borneo Dayak Festival celebration held at a well-known restaurant in Bintulu last night.
He added that the current situation has brought difficulties to the community, especially when someone passes away, and the family cannot bring the body back to the longhouse for a final farewell.
"Many have faced difficulties after a loved one passes away because they cannot bring the body back to the longhouse. In the end, they have to conduct the final farewell at the cemetery located at the 5th kilometer of the Bintulu-Sibu road."
"This is a challenge that needs swift and systematic resolution," he stated. The Kemena area representative also noted that the solution requires careful planning.
He thus urged the district office to develop a comprehensive action plan, including identifying new cemetery locations and considering facilities like chapels suitable for all communities.
"Whether we are Catholics, Christians, or other ethnic groups, we all need to arrange properly. This relates to our dignity and responsible social management."
Lundi further emphasized that the cemetery issue is not just a religious problem but reflects the community's concern for basic needs and its respect and planning capabilities for the deceased.
During last night's event, the attractive "Pagit Kumang" activity was also held, adding a festive atmosphere to the 2025 Sibu Borneo Dayak Festival celebration.