PAPAR: A total of 48 temples participated in a parade to celebrate the 13th Sabah Taoism Festival and the Mazu’s birthday here on Saturday.
The parade route, which included Benoni Commercial Centre and Parklane City, also highlighted the rapid transformation of Papar with developments in the new Benoni township spearheaded by Datuk Susan Wong Siew Guen, the managing director of WSG Group.
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The event showcased the Papar’s growth in commercial, residential, educational and sports infrastructure as it progresses toward becoming a modern township.
Organized by Pertubuhan Buddha Kong Hock Papar, the large-scale festival has attracted over 40 temples from all over Sabah.
Susan, who was the guest of honour, said participants from the various temples have arrived in Papar since May 8 to take part in the celebration.
“I’m moved by the spirits of harmony, mutual respect and great support among the community towards this event,” she said.
She said the parade was not merely a religious activity, but also an important cultural event that united the local community and strengthened cultural ties.
With participation from more than 40 temples throughout Sabah, she said the parade has successfully achieved its objectives of boosting tourism, dispelling negative energy and praying for protection from illness and calamities, which reflected Taoism’s spirit in promoting peace and unity in society.
Susan also expressed appreciation to Pertubuhan Buddha Kong Hock Papar bringing the participants to Papar and created a lively atmosphere in the township.
She said Papar has underwent significant transformations in recent years.
She also announced two upcoming development plans.
“Firstly, WSG Group plans to build a fully integrated indoor sports complex featuring indoor futsal courts, pickleball courts, table tennis facilities and badminton courts to provide residents with better recreational and wellness amenities.
“In addition, North Borneo University, where I serve as a board member, will officially establish its campus at Parklane City following the signing of a tenancy agreement on May 7, 2026.
“The first phase will involve the construction of a six-storey building offering three faculties, namely the Faculty of Healthcare, the Faculty of Oil, Gas and Energy, and the Faculty of Maritime, Shipping and Logistics,” she said.
