By Irvina Joan
KOTA PADAWAN — His Grace Archbishop Simon Poh, Archbishop of Kuching, officiated and blessed the newly built St Ann Complex, comprising an administrative block and a religious education block on 8 March 2025.
This milestone strengthens faith formation and enhances pastoral services for over 25,000 parishioners across 51 villages and nine residential areas in Kota Padawan, Padawan, and Penrissen.
Built at a cost of RM6.7 million, the complex provides better facilities for religious education. With 14 additional classrooms, St Ann can now support catechism classes for children, the RCIA program for adults, and preparation for First Holy Communion and Confirmation.
Friar Don credited the project’s success to generous contributions from various parties, including UNIFOR (Unit for Other Religious), which donated RM2 million in 2022 and 2024, and YB Datuk Lo Khere Chiang, who contributed RM200,000 towards an additional RM1.7 million parking facility. Parishioners also played a vital role through weekly Mass collections, St Ann’s Feast Day fundraising, and personal donations.
In his speech, Archbishop Simon Poh emphasized the importance of time, talent, and treasure in strengthening the faith community. He reminded parishioners that “the Church is not just a building, but a spiritual home built by its people.”
The new St Ann Complex is a significant step towards nurturing faith. The Church hopes for continued support in building a stronger faith community.
