St Ann church expands with new facilities for 25,000 parishioners

Mar 22, 2025

By Irvina Joan
The Archbishop of Kuching, Most Rev Simon Poh, blessed and opened the newly constructed St Ann Complex on March 8. The complex includes an administrative block and a religious education block, marking a significant milestone in the region.

This new development is set to strengthen faith formation and enhance pastoral services for over 25,000 parishioners across 51 villages and nine residential areas in the districts of 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, the church can now support catechism classes for children, the RCIA programme for adults, and preparation for First Holy Communion and Confirmation.

St Ann’s parish rector, Friar Don Don Romero Ramerez, OFM 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 IR 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 emphasised 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 toward nurturing faith. The church hopes for continued support in building a stronger faith community.