Christian Churches in Sabah, Malaysia

Three Major Denominational Groups of the World

1. Western Traditions

• Catholic Church (Diocese of Kota Kinabalu, Diocese of Sandakan, Diocese of Keningau)
• Anglican Church (Diocese of Sabah, with parishes across Tawau, Sandakan, Lahad Datu, and Kota Kinabalu)
• Basel Christian Church of Malaysia (BCM)
• Methodist Church (including Holy Grace Methodist Church in Tawau)
• Baptist Church
• Lutheran Church
• Evangelical and Charismatic Churches (e.g., Calvary Charismatic Church Tawau)
• Seventh-day Adventist Church

2. Nontrinitarian Groups

• Jehovah's Witnesses
• The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints
• Oneness Pentecostal
• True Jesus Church

3. Eastern Traditions

• Eastern Orthodox Church
• Oriental Orthodox Church
• Assyrian Church of the East

Prominent Churches in Tawau

• Holy Trinity Catholic Church  -  A central parish for the Catholic community
• St. Patrick's Anglican Church  -  One of the oldest Anglican parishes in Tawau
• Basel Christian Church of Malaysia, Tawau  -  Strong presence among Chinese-speaking Christians
• Calvary City Church Tawau   -  A vibrant charismatic congregation
• True Jesus Church  -  Nontrinitarian denomination with active members
• Holy Grace Methodist Church   -  Known for its community outreach

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints

Learn more about this church community

Basel Christian Church

Christmas Decoration for 2017

The Church In Tawau Assembly Hall

Jesus Is Lord Church (JIL), is a Christian church originating in Manila, Philippines. The Church is a Full Gospel, Christ-centred, and Bible-based church. Most members in JIL Tawau are Filipino workers and their families.

Christian Traditions and Events in Sabah

• Carols by Candlelight (Tawau)  -  Hosted annually by Holy Trinity Church, bringing together people of all races and ages in a festive celebration.
• Walk for Jesus (2017, Tawau)  -  A city-wide event uniting Christians in public witness of faith.
• Christmas Decorations  -  Churches across Sabah, including Basel Christian Church and Anglican parishes, are known for their elaborate Christmas celebrations.

Walk for Jesus 2017 Tawau

City-wide event uniting Christians

Carols by Candlelight 2014

O HOLY NIGHT - Holy Trinity Church of Tawau has a fabulous Christmas tradition.

Christmas Decorations 2012

Churches across Sabah, including Basel Christian Church and Anglican parishes, are known for their elaborate Christmas celebrations.

Civic Contributions

Sabah's churches are not only spiritual centers but also community leaders. For example:

• Sidang Injil Borneo (SIB) Kota Kinabalu Church was recognized as a litter-free religious house in 2012, alongside the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Likas and Inanam Basel Church. This aligns with Kota Kinabalu City Hall's 5K vision: Cleanliness, Beauty, Safety, Orderliness, and Harmony.

Distribution of Churches in Sabah

According to recent records, Sandakan hosts 25 churches, Lahad Datu 22, and Tawau 15.

Historical Significance

Christianity in Sabah has played a vital role in education, healthcare, and social development. Missionaries established schools and clinics, contributing to literacy and welfare among indigenous communities. The faith continues to be a cornerstone of Sabah's multicultural identity, fostering unity and resilience.

Churches in Tawau

Catholicism Churches in Tawau

Christianity Churches in Tawau