Huang (centre) and members of the Sarikei Orthodox Buddhist Association pose for a photograph in front of the seven-storey pagoda currently under construction. – Ukas photo
SARIKEI (June 4): A seven-storey pagoda currently under construction at the Sarikei Orthodox Buddhist Association is set to become a prominent landmark and a new tourism attraction for the division, said Deputy Minister of Plantation and Commodities Dato Sri Huang Tiong Sii.
Huang said the project, funded under the Rural Transformation Programme (RTP), would not only serve as a centre for the dissemination of Buddhist teachings but also contribute significantly to the growth of Sarikei’s tourism sector.
Huang, who is also the Sarikei MP and Repok assemblyman, said this when speaking at a Wesak Day celebration organised by the Sarikei Orthodox Buddhist Association recently.
In a Sarawak Public Communications Unit (Ukas) report, Huang said the pagoda would add value to Sarikei’s tourism landscape while providing a meaningful space for religious, cultural and community activities.
In a separate development, Huang revealed that the government is also implementing a road-widening project along Nyelong Bypass in front of the association’s premises.
The project involves upgrading the existing road into a four-lane carriageway to improve traffic flow, enhance road safety and provide greater convenience for road users.
Touching on the significance of the Wesak Day celebration, he said the occasion served as a reminder of the values of compassion, wisdom and harmony, which remain relevant in everyday life.
He stressed that people of different races and religions must continue to cultivate mutual respect, tolerance and a spirit of helping one another in order to preserve the unity and stability that Sarawak enjoys today.
During the event, Huang announced a contribution of RM20,000 to the Sarikei Orthodox Buddhist Association to support its religious and community-based activities.
Also present was Sarikei Orthodox Buddhist Association chairman Chan Phan Chan.
