Sibu Sri Maha Mariamman Temple to Open Soon; Expected to Feature Borneo's Tallest Raja Gopuram

(Kuching, 21st) The highly anticipated Sri Maha Mariamman Temple on Batu Street is nearing completion and is expected to officially open early next year. At that time, its grand and magnificent 'Raja Gopuram' will become the tallest temple gateway tower in Borneo.
The temple association chairman Datuk Shankar Ram Asnani stated that the temple construction is in its final stages, with only the placement of the sanctum and deities yet to be completed. Once preparations are done, a "consecration ceremony" can be held.
"The temple is actually almost finished, with only the sanctum section left. We are currently waiting for the deities to arrive from India. After that, many religious rituals still need to be conducted, so it'll take at least another three months before the consecration ceremony can be held."
He made these remarks yesterday (October 20) during a media interview at the King's Curry Restaurant on Petanak Road, Batu Kawah, when hosting a Diwali open house.
He added that if everything goes smoothly, the consecration ceremony is expected to be held in January or February next year, with the exact date depending on when the deities arrive.
According to earlier reports, one of the temple's main highlights is its six-storey-tall, 600-ton 'Raja Gopuram', which when completed will be decorated with over a hundred deity statues, creating a grand and majestic sight. The main hall will enshrine the benevolent mother goddess—Sri Maha Mariamman.
Shankar pointed out that the RM4 million temple project received strong support from the Sarawak government, with around RM3 million provided in government funding and the remainder coming from public donations.
Speaking on the meaning of Diwali, Shankar, who is also a senior lawyer, said that Diwali is not only a religious festival, but also symbolizes the spirit of "light triumphing over darkness and good triumphing over evil".
"Diwali is celebrated nationwide in India; not only Hindus, but Sikhs, Jains, Buddhists, and even Muslims celebrate together."
He further pointed out that although Indian Malaysians are the smallest ethnic group in Sarawak, they have always felt the warmth of home.
"It's not just about tolerance, but also truly loving others. It’s important to integrate into society, communicate with other ethnic groups, and build cross-ethnic and cross-faith relationships."
Meanwhile, his wife Datin Karishma Shankar Asnani stated that during the open house, guests could enjoy authentic Indian delicacies, including Kashmiri Lamb Rogan Josh based on cashews and almonds, yogurt chicken curry, and Indian street snacks like "Pani Puri".
"I hope guests can experience the feeling of eating Pani Puri on the streets of India themselves," she joked.