(Miri, 29th) – Sarawak Deputy Minister of Tourism Dato' Sebastian Ting stated that the faith and culture of the Nine Emperor Gods have been passed down through generations, uniting devotees with solidarity and perseverance and are worthy of being continued.
He made these remarks last night while attending the 28th Anniversary Dinner of the Malaysia Doumu Temple Nine Emperor Gods Association, hosted by Hai Long Temple, Miri Province, as well as the 138th Anniversary Celebration of Hai Long Temple's lineage. The event was held at the Hai Long Temple Wu Qinglong Master Grand Hall in Miri.
Sebastian Ting praised the committee for their diligent preparations, which ensured the smooth running of the event, and thanked the association for allowing Miri to host this grand national celebration, giving local devotees the opportunity to serve as hosts.
Special thanks were given to those who helped Hai Long Temple secure grants. He noted that, with the help of friends, up to RM3.5 million in government grants have been secured over time to support the development and construction of the temple.
"Through the State Premier's Department's Unit For Other Religions (UNIFOR), Miri Hai Long Temple received an initial grant of RM500,000, followed by RM1.7 million, RM1 million, and the latest grant of RM300,000, which was handed over last night, amounting to a total of RM3.5 million. This is the result of everyone’s collective effort, and I am especially thankful for those contributions."
He stated that in recent years, the Sarawak government has strongly supported non-Muslim organizations and Chinese education, providing RM10 million annually for Chinese independent schools and RM110 million to temples, churches, and other non-Muslim religious organizations throughout Sarawak.
He also mentioned that two Chinese independent high schools in Miri continue to benefit from this, highlighting the state's commitment to multicultural and educational development.
In his speech, Sebastian Ting also introduced Sarawak's multicultural background, with 34 ethnic groups living together in religious harmony and smooth communication, setting an example of ethnic coexistence.
“We are truly a diverse, free, and inclusive society, and I hope this spirit can be passed down through generations.”
He hopes that everyone treasures the country's multicultural advantages and also calls for continued support for the work of passing on religious and cultural traditions.
As Deputy Minister of Tourism, he welcomed guests who were visiting Miri for the first time, encouraging them to take the opportunity to tour Miri and experience the local culture and customs during the event.
“As the saying goes: all good things must come to an end, but wherever there is the faith of the Nine Emperor Gods, our friends will always reunite.”
Sebastian Ting pointed out that Miri has two UNESCO World Heritage sites: Mulu National Park (since 2005) and the recently listed Niah Caves, encouraging visitors to bring their families in the future to personally experience the natural and cultural beauty of the region.
He revealed that next year’s Sacred Seal Palace Conference will move to Labuan, and he looks forward to temples and palaces from all regions gathering once again to make the event even more grand.
"Everyone in Miri feels immensely honored to be able to host this year's event, and we hope to continue to carry forward the spirit of faith and culture in the future."
