ONE of the oldest churches in Penang, St Paul’s Church on Macalister Road, has reached another historic milestone with the acquisition of an adjacent building as part of its long-planned expansion project.
This new development aims to enhance the church’s facilities and services for its congregation and the broader community.
The groundbreaking ceremony, held earlier today, was officiated by Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, marking a momentous occasion in the church’s 139-year history.
Also present were Penang Island City Council (MBPP) councillor Benji Ang Ming Quan, Right Reverend Dr Steven Abarrow, Bishop of the Diocese of West Malaysia Right Reverend Dr Stephen Soe Chee Cheng, Suffragan Bishop of Northern Peninsula Area Diocese Venerable Soong Hoe Pin, Archdeacon of Upper North Archdeaconry Reverend Philip Ong, St Paul’s Church committee member Daniel Soon Aik Bin and Chow’s wife Tan Lean Kee.
Soon revealed that the project would cost RM3.25 million, covering both the purchase price and the construction expenses.
“The funding primarily comes from our church members and the diocese. The existing structure will be demolished to make way for a new five-storey building, which will seamlessly connect to the main church building,” said Soon.
He outlined the project’s objectives, emphasising its community-driven purpose.
“The new building will house a safe space for youth, including a board game area and a self-study area, a senior citizen activity centre, offices, a Sunday school, and a seminar room for pre-marriage courses.
“Construction is set to begin after the Chinese New Year and is expected to be completed within a year,” he said.
In his speech, Chow highlighted the rich heritage of St Paul’s Church, which was established in 1886 as the first Anglican Chinese church in Peninsular Malaysia.
“The current church building, consecrated in 1951, was further expanded with a five-storey annexe in 2001.
“Over the years, St Paul’s Church has not only catered to the spiritual needs of its congregation but also extended its mission outreach to establish daughter churches in Ayer Itam, Butterworth, Bukit Mertajam, and Teluk Kumbar,” said Chow.
Chow also commended the church’s leadership for dedicating this expansion to social initiatives.
“This project reflects Christian teachings to ‘love your neighbour as yourself.’ I am heartened to see the church prioritising spaces for senior citizen activities, youth study areas, and relational enrichment programmes,” he said.
He noted that these efforts align closely with the Penang2030 vision of fostering community welfare and social cohesion.
Chow also expressed his hopes for the church’s continued contributions to society, emphasising the importance of addressing the needs of the community.
“I look forward to witnessing future collaborations between St Paul’s Church and various stakeholders to support those in need.
“I extend my best wishes to the church’s leadership and congregation, hoping the extension work proceeds smoothly and is completed on schedule,” he concluded.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Siew Chia En
Video by Siti Nuratikah Rahmat