Once completed, Fo Guang See Temple in Beliong is expected to be a major tourist attraction in Kota Samarahan, Sarawak.
Despite the temple being accessible only by boat, Deputy Premier Datuk Dr Sim Kui Hian, in a social media post, said the simple wooden temple has evolved into an iconic Taoist-Buddhist complex over the years.
He added that it has become popular with worshippers and tourists.
Earlier, Dr Sim attended the groundbreaking ceremony for the temple and Zheng Tian Deities Council Hall.
“The temple has changed with so many new construction, totally transforming the 1.62ha waterfront and contributing significantly to the local community’s economy,” he said.
Dr Sim said since 2019, Sarawak’s Unit for Other Religions (Unifor) has contributed RM1.7mil towards the various phases of the temple construction.
In terms of infrastructure development, he said the surrounding areas of Beliong would see a four-lane highway, new Kuching International Airport and new deep sea port in the next few years.
The Fo Guang See Temple is expected to be completed in two to three years. The Zheng Tian Deities Council Hall, inspired by Taoist beliefs, will house 60 statues of Tai Sui and other major deities.
