SIBU: Sept 10, 2026 – 850 delegates from nine dioceses across Malaysia gathered in Sibu for the Malaysian Pastoral Convention 2026 (MPC2026), described as a historic national gathering for the country’s Catholic community.
National Unity Minister Dato Sri Aaron Ago anak Dagang said the convention was not merely a platform to strengthen the faith and fellowship of Catholics, but also reflected the community’s commitment to strengthening national harmony and unity.
In his speech when officiating the convention at Hotel Kingwood, Sibu, today, he said MPC2026 was the first large-scale national-level Catholic gathering since the formation of Malaysia in 1963, bringing together participants from Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah and Sarawak.
He said the convention’s theme, “Celebrate, Listen, Walk Together”, carried an important message for Malaysian society to appreciate diversity, open space for dialogue and strengthen inter-community relations.
“Unity does not mean we have to be the same. We can practise different religions, languages and traditions, yet still share the same country and future,” he said.
He said diversity alone does not create unity, as it must be built through understanding, respect, trust and cooperation.
Meanwhile, Aaron Ago said the Catholic community also contributed significantly to the nation through education, healthcare, social welfare, charity work and service to the needy.
He stressed that the spirit of “Celebrate, Listen, Walk Together” should continue beyond the convention through interfaith and inter-community cooperation to build a more united Malaysia.
