KOTA KINABALU: The Che Hor Khor Moral Uplifting Society Penampang has welcomed an assurance by Assistant Finance Minister Datuk Ben Chong Chen Bin to do his best to secure financial support from the State Government for the Society’s Chinese Cultural Centre Project.
Society President Wong Sound Sing said the proposed development, which incorporates a temple, will be built on a 6.6-acre site at Bukit Padang here.
Wong and Deputy President I Datuk Frankie Liew expressed their appreciation for Chong’s commitment when he officiated at the Society’s 24th anniversary celebration held at Sabah Hakka Hall here Friday night.
Chong gave the assurance during the event, pledging to assist the Society in its efforts to obtain funding support for the ambitious cultural project.
Speaking to reporters at the celebration, Wong acknowledged a contribution of RM100,000 from the Tourism, Culture and Environment Ministry (KePKAS) towards the project’s Building Fund.
He said the contribution was made during the tenure of former Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Seri Christina Liew.
According to Wong, the support provided by KePKAS has helped advance the Society’s plans for the Chinese Cultural Centre.
Meanwhile, Christina, who was recently appointed Chairwoman of Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, said the completed structure is expected to become a significant landmark in Penampang.
She believes the impressive architectural development will serve not only as the Society’s official premises but also as a new tourist attraction in the district.
Chinese Cultural Centre Project Director Ir KJ.Tan said earthworks for site preparation have reached 90 per cent completion.
“The next stage is to build the access road to the site and commence piling work,” he said when asked about the progress of the project.
Tan added that both the building plan and road plan are currently undergoing approval by the relevant authorities.
He expressed confidence that the project would continue to progress smoothly once the necessary approvals are obtained.
The Chinese Cultural Centre is envisioned as a centre for cultural, religious and community activities while preserving and promoting Chinese heritage in Sabah.
During the anniversary celebration, Chong led the cake-cutting ceremony to mark the Society’s 24th anniversary.
Also present were Event Organising Chairman Teh Tian Peng, Assistant Minister to the Chief Minister Datuk Ceaser Mandela Malakun, Frankie Liew, Christina Liew, Wong, United Sabah Chinese Communities Association of Kota Kinabalu (USCCAKK) President Datuk Susan Wong and Sabah Publishing House Managing Director Datuk Clement Yeh.
