After more than two decades of worshipping in temporary locations, the Johor Bahru Bahasa Malaysia (JBBM) Seventh-day Adventist Church has finally established a permanent place of worship. The dedication and inauguration ceremony of the new church building took place on March 9, 2025, at Taman Sutera, Perling, marking a significant milestone for the congregation.
For years, the JBBM congregation moved from one location to another, sharing spaces with the English Adventist Church in Johor Bahru and later utilizing the facilities of a literature evangelist institution (HHES) in Permas Jaya. Despite these challenges, members remained steadfast in their faith, believing that God would eventually provide a church of their own. That vision has now become a reality.
The ceremony was attended by church members, guests from the Southern Region churches, and officials from the Peninsular Malaysia Mission (PEM) and the Malaysia Union Mission (MAUM). The event commenced with a guided tour of the new church building, followed by a communal potluck meal, fostering a spirit of fellowship and gratitude.
The event began with a praise and worship session by the Women’s Ministry Trio, followed by a welcome speech from emcee, Elder Murtin Santim. Pastor Nelson Bendah then led the opening prayer and the program continued with special choir and solo performances from various SDA churches, including JB English, JB Tamil, Megah Ria, Ulu Tiram, and Kluang, with the final performance by the hosts, JBBM.
The ceremony continued with messages from church leaders, Pastor Minsun Pangalin and Elder Jalius Nupin, who expressed gratitude to the individuals and churches that contributed to this milestone. Elder Roy Francis shared a testimony on the church’s historical journey, while former JBBM pastors, Pastor Renie Ubara (2010-2014) and Pastor Maclan Matthew (2014-2023), reflected on the church’s growth over the years. Additionally, a fundraising offering session provided attendees the opportunity to contribute to the further development and sustainability of the church.
In his special inaugural message, MAUM President Pastor Abel Bana emphasized God’s blessings in providing a ‘permanent home’ and encouraged the congregation to put their faith into action as they moved forward in their new sanctuary. The symbolic ribbon-cutting ceremony officially marked the opening of the JBBM church.
This was followed by the gathering of all the members and attendees to the front and led in dedication prayer by PEM President Pastor Tan Men Cheng.
Finally, a group photo session commemorated this historic occasion, before closing the day with light refreshments and joyful fellowship.
Reported by Shaney Charmaine Albert, JBBM Church
28 March 2025, Friday.