15-05-2025
Multi-faith blessing marks milestone in Baram Delta channel dredging project
Majang (front, sixth left) in a photocall after the multi-faith blessing ceremony.
MIRI (May 15): A multi-faith blessing ceremony was held in Kuala Baram today to commemorate the progress of the RM208.9-million Baram Delta Miri Access Channel dredging and deepening project.
The event brought together religious leaders and community representatives in a gesture of unity, spiritual reflection, and shared aspirations for the project's success.
The ceremony began with a 'doa selamat' led by Imam Ismawi Hashim of Masjid Nurul Iman, Kampung Masjid, followed by Christian prayers led by Reverend Dato Dr Justin Wan.
An Iban 'miring' ritual, performed by Sulang Runtuh from Tatau, represented the indigenous community's cultural blessings. A Taoist prayer ceremony would be held at a later date.
Sarawak Deputy Minister of Infrastructure and Port Development Datuk Majang Renggi officiated the event on behalf of Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas.
Also in attendance were residents of Kampung Masjid and Kampung Muhibbah, Miri Port Authority (MPA) officials led by general manager Serawa Budol, contractor representatives, community leaders, and MPA chairman Dato Paulus Palu Gumbang along with board members.
In his speech delivered by Majang, Uggah underscored the importance of cultural and spiritual inclusivity, highlighting the ceremony as a reflection of Sarawak's diverse yet unified society.
'This diversity in prayer reflects not just the multicultural fabric of Sarawak, but also our shared beliefs in the power of faith – regardless of religion – to bless our work, strengthen unity, and guide us toward our goals,' he said.
The dredging and deepening project, spearheaded by MPA, commenced in July last year and is currently ahead of schedule. Phase one is expected to be completed by March 2027.
The initiative is part of the state government's long-term strategy to enhance port capacity, improve regional trade connectivity, and deliver socio-economic benefits to Miri and its surrounding areas. Baram Delta channel dredging Kuala Baram Majang Renggi multi-faith blessing
