Mosques in new Sibu settlements to incorporate local architectural elements - Abang Johari

SIBU: The Sarawak government plans to build mosques that incorporate the architectural elements of the local multicultural community in the new settlements developed here.

Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said apart from portraying the uniqueness of the multicultural society in Sibu, it also aimed to provide an understanding of Islamic teachings to non-Muslims.

According to him, this concept has been implemented by him for the construction of a mosque in the Piasau area in Miri, apart from the Islamic Information Centre in Kuching - during the time the Yang di-Pertua Negeri of Sarawak Tun Abdul Taib Mahmud was the chief minister of Sarawak - wherein the two premises adopted Chinese architecture.

Speaking at the opening of the Al-Qadim Mosque here tonight, he said the plan had been discussed with Sarawak Deputy Minister of Education, Innovation and Talent Development Dr Annuar Rapaee, who is also chairman of the Sibu Islamic Welfare Trust Board (LAKIS).

"The new mosques that we build in the Sibu Division will be able to showcase the culture of Muslims as well as the way they govern and manage the state," he said.

He also appreciated the efforts of LAKIS led by Dr Annuar, who is also the Nangka assemblyman, in renovating the Al-Qadim Mosque - the oldest in the state which is estimated to be over 160 years old - by maintaining its original architecture and improving the interior.

- BERNAMA