MIRI: More than 2,500 Christians of the Borneo Evangelical Mission (BEM) church attended the annual Sarawak Irau Easter BEM at Kampung Long Atip in Baram from June 4 to 6.
Telang Usan assemblyman Dennis Ngau, who officiated at the opening of the Irau Easter, said the state government under the leadership of Chief Minister Tan Sri Datuk Amar Adenan Satem would continue to safeguard all religions in the state and ensure that all enjoy freedom of religion.
“In addition to that, the state government will also continue to support events like this as it realises that our state is progressing well in peace and harmony due to the respect among religions here,” he said.
He also said that the word ‘Allah’ is free to be used by Christians here and urged members of all BEM churches in the state not to be influenced by rumours, which give rise to tension.
He said church leaders must also play their part in explaining the matter to their congregation so they are not confused and listen to irresponsible individuals.
“I would also like to call on the youths to participate actively in an event like this as it is not only good for them spiritually but it also helps them to build close rapport with fellow Christians from other regions and areas in Baram,” Dennis said.
Irau Easter BEM is an important event for members of BEM church, especially in Baram, as it is the biggest event on the church calendar where Christians gather from all walks of life to worship God.
Dennis also announced RM20,000 from his Minor Rural Project (MRP) grant to the organising committee to organise more events in the future.
The event has been organised annually since 1947 where the first Irau Easter took place in Long Tebangan in Baram.
About 40 BEM churches in Central Baram, Apoh region and Tutoh in Baram attended this year’s Irau Easter in Long Atip.
Also present at the event were political secretary to the chief minister Robert Laing and president of BEM Sarawak Dr Justin Wan.