First Berawan Catholic Priest Ordained in Miri Diocese

The Diocese of Miri celebrated a historic milestone with the ordination of Fr. Joel Rut Markus, its first Catholic priest from the indigenous Berawan community. Over 3,000 faithful, including clergy from the Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur, gathered at St. Dominic and The Rosary Church in Taman Tunku, Miri, for the Ordination Mass, held during Malaysia Day celebrations.

Born in Long Jegan, Baram, Fr. Joel completed eight and a half years of seminary formation in Penang and Kuching. His journey began a decade ago when a Dutch priest, preaching in Iban, inspired him to serve local communities in their own language and culture.
Reflecting on Fr. Joel's journey, Bishop Richard Ng called on young men to consider the priesthood, emphasising the need for local vocations in northern Sarawak. Fr. Joel will begin his ministry at Holy Family Church in Lapok.

Photo Credit: RVA