Church requests for land to build a church in Batu Kawan

The Bishop of the Diocese of Penang, Rt Rev Datuk Sebastian Francis has humbly requested for land in Batu Kawan to build a new church.

“I humbly request the state for land to build a church in Batu Kawan, where the story of the first arrivals of Chinese settlers from mainland China began,” Bishop Sebastian said.

He was speaking at the Parents’ Day fundraising dinner at the Church of the Holy Name of Mary in Permatang Tinggi on June 17.

“I would like to thank the donors who helped to build our new Church of the Holy Name of Mary and the parish centre in Permatang Tinggi.

“The building project is necessary due to the growing needs of the local residents in this area. We will keep the old beautiful iconic church, which is of heritage value, for our future generation.

“Our records tell us that the first baptism recorded in this church was on Sept 10, 1893,” Bishop Sebastian said.

He said that the fundraising effort managed to raise RM2.1 million so far. It is understood that the church needs RM6 million for the project.

Bishop Sebastian thanked the state for the RM20,000 financial aid for the maintenance of the beautiful iconic church.

Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said he would check with the Penang Development Corporation (PDC) if there are any land reserves for religious purposes in Batu Kawan.

“Your request for a piece of land in Batu Kawan will be given utmost priority,” Chow said.

Article reproduced from Herald Malaysia online