Thousands brave rain for Sibu Christmas Parade 2025
by Peter Boon · Borneo Post OnlineSIBU (Dec 13): Undeterred by rain and armed with umbrellas, caps, and raincoats, some 6,000 participants turned out for the Association of Churches in Sarawak (ACS) Sibu Christmas Parade 2025 tonight.
The festive mood remained high as they gathered at Dataran Tun Tuanku Bujang Phase 1, ready to celebrate Christmas under this year’s theme: “Jesus, Our Blessed Hope”.
Organised by the ACS Sibu branch and hosted by the Roman Catholic Church, the parade featured a two-kilometre procession through the town centre, complete with marching bands, vibrant floats, and enthusiastic church members.
Participating churches included the Anglican Church, Borneo Evangelical Mission (BEM), Catholic Church, Methodist Church (Sarawak Chinese and Iban Annual Conferences), YMCA Sibu, and several independent churches.
The evening began with opening remarks from Rev Monsignor Michael Lee, vice-chairman of ACS Sibu, who expressed gratitude for the unity among participating churches.
Lee noted that for 54 years, the Sibu ACS Christmas Parade has been the oldest and most enduring witness of Christmas in Sarawak.
“What began in the compounds of our churches has grown into a procession that unites communities, generations, and traditions. Tonight, we walk together in faith, proclaiming that Jesus Christ is our Blessed Hope,” he said.
The opening prayer was delivered by Venerable Archdeacon Jose Jol, chairman of ACS Sibu branch and Vicar of St John’s Anglican Church, followed by a multi-language Praise and Worship session led by Sacred Heart Cathedral’s English Prayer Group.
Bishop Joseph Hii of the Sibu Diocese then delivered an inspiring Christmas message, highlighting how Sibu natives who ventured elsewhere carried hope with them — and how those who remain continue to give hope to their hometown.
“For those who remain in Sibu, we continue to give hope to the people of Sibu,” said Hii.
At 6.50pm, the Unity Candle was lit by Bishop Hii, Rev Lee, Pastor Yahya Ating (BEM), Dr Lau Hui Ming (SCAC Methodist Church), Councillor Paul Teo, Penghulu Ting Tien Huat, and other invited guests, marking the start of the festivities.
By 7pm, the parade set off along the town centre streets, with cheering crowds lining both sides of the road.
The procession featured 10 beautifully illuminated floats from participating churches, followed by stage performances at Dataran Tun Tuanku Bujang Phase 1, bringing the vibrant Christmas spirit to life despite the rain.