Abp Wong receives “datukship” on 6th episcopal anniversary

KOTA KINABALU – Archbishop John Wong was among 53 recipients who received the state’s second highest award, the Panglima Gemilang Darjah Kinabalu (PGDK), which carries the title ‘Datuk’ on 1 Oct 2016.

It was also his sixth episcopal ordination anniversary.

The conferment of state awards and medals is a yearly event held in conjunction with the birthday of the Sabah Head of State.

A total of 876 recipients received state awards and medals in conjunction with the 63rd birthday of Tun Juhar Mahirrudin at the Istana Negeri here.

In his ceremonial address, the head of state said strong unity among the people in the State is the best defence against extreme ideologies including terrorism.

“I urge everyone including grassroots leaders and communities to always be vigilant and proactive in providing information to the authorities if they come across suspicious activities,” said Juhar.

The KK prelate is the fifth church dignitary to receive the award; his predecessors being the late Bishop Simon Fung, Abp Emeritus John Lee, Bishop Cornelius Piong and Bishop Julius Dusin Gitom.