By Karen Bong
KUCHING, Jan 8:The Kuching Hokkien Association has requested an additional RM2 million from the Unit for Other Religions (Unifor) to complete the construction of the Mazu Temple within the Qing San Yan Temple complex in Muara Tebas, as plans for a proposed waterfront in the area are also being considered.
Association’s chairman Dato Sri Richard Wee said the project, which began over 15 years ago, has reached approximately 90 per cent completion, with most statues, roof tiles, and furnishings imported from China to follow traditional temple designs.
“The total project cost close to RM9 million. Unifor has contributed about RM4 million so far, but we are falling short of some main construction costs. We are applying for the final RM2 million to complete the temple by next year,” he told reporters after the Mazu Statue Consecration Ceremony today held at the temple which was officiated by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian.
Wee described the Qing San Yan Temple as a historical landmark, having served the community for over 200 years.
“The relationship between the temple, the kampung, and the mosque has been very incredible, even a national TV station did a documentary on the temple,” he said.
The Mazu Statue Consecration Ceremony served as a soft opening in conjunction with the upcoming Chinese New Year, allowing devotees to begin offering prayers.
The association plans an official opening ceremony in May, coinciding with the birthday of the Mazu Deity.
The project was initially proposed by the late Dato Sri Tay Thian Siong and saw the groundbreaking in 2019.
“The construction has progressed very smoothly, thanks to the government of Sarawak,” Wee said.
Highlighting future plans, he added that during an inspection of the temple’s progress on Dec 24, 2025, Deputy Minister for Energy and Environmental Sustainability Datuk Dr Hazland Abang Hipni mentioned the possibility of a small waterfront at Muara Tebas.
“We are exploring ways to negotiate with some local business owners to potentially relocate them, opening up the area for better development,” he said.
The Mazu Temple is managed by the Kuching Hokkien Association alongside the Wayang Street temple, forming a central part of the association’s community and cultural initiatives. — DayakDaily
