By Redemptorist Missionary Series
PERAK – Located in Ulu Kinta, just outside Ipoh, Malaysia, the rural town of Tanjong Rambutan holds a story of perseverance — a story closely connected to the Malaysian Redemptorist community, especially shaped by the life and ministry of Fr Joseph Stephen CSsR.
The mission began in 1972, when the Redemptorists of the Vice Province of Malaysia and Singapore were entrusted with the pastoral care of this area. What started as a simple outreach by the Redemptorists of Ipoh Gardens (Church of Our Mother of Perpetual Help), gradually became a living and growing mission.
In the early years, the community was made up largely of Tamil-speaking families — hardworking people, many of whom were rubber tappers or workers in the nearby mental hospital. Life was not easy, yet they had faith in God.
There was no church building then. Holy Mass was celebrated in homes, and sometimes in a Methodist or Tamil school. Due to curfew restrictions, Mass was held in the afternoon, around 3.00pm, with priests ensuring everyone returned home safely. These beginnings reflected deep commitment — both from the people and the missionaries.
Moved by faith, the people built a small hut that could hold about 20 people. That humble space became their place of worship — a place where, we can say, heaven touched earth.
By 1985, the community built a chapel dedicated to Mother Mary, Chapel of St Mary. Over the years, a grotto and a hall were added.
The journey was not without challenges. There were times of closure and uncertainty. Yet through prayer, discernment, and regathering themselves, the community returned again and again to God. In recent years, Fr Joe has played a pivotal role in strengthening the community. With his pastoral closeness and perseverance, he has walked with the people through their struggles and hopes — helping them remain rooted in faith. Alongside him, Fr Philip Lai CSsR, Fr Patrick Massang CSsR, and Fr Paul Kee CSsR have also journeyed with the community in different ways. Support has also come at times from Redemptorists in Singapore and Province of Bangalore, India.
A significant milestone was reached on Apr 19, when the newly renovated chapel was completed and blessed. Fr Joe and Fr Philip blessed the chapel, marking a moment of thanksgiving for the entire community. This renovation was made possible through the generosity of many donors.
Today, the Tanjong Rambutan community stands as a witness to what faith and perseverance can achieve. The community has grown, children are better educated, and many families now live more stable lives.
This is not just the story of a place — it is the story of a people, and of the Redemptorist missionaries who have chosen to walk alongside them. – Herald Malaysia
