Asia Gateway Training (AGT) began its partnership with the Diocese of Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia, two years ago, with the inclusion of Bishop Andy, based in Brunei, as a member of the AGT Board. On 1st July 2024, Canon Frederick David, the Board Chairman of AGT, and I visited Kuching to meet with the clergy of the Diocese. Approximately 50 clergy members attended in person, with many more joining online. During the meeting, we introduced the AGT program, highlighting two key focuses: first, mobilizing clergy to embrace a mission ethos that addresses the needs of a changing community, and second, initiating or supporting the development of a missional community. To this end, we presented the Basic Certificate in Christian Leadership (BCCL) program, designed to equip church members to actively partner in the Mission of God (Missio Dei).

The BCCL program was warmly received by Bishop Donald Jute and the clergy of the Diocese of Kuching. As a result, the Anglican Diocese of Kuching officially partnered with AGT to implement the program. This collaboration was formalized when Rt. Rev. Donald Jute launched the BCCL program on 10th January 2025 at the House of the Epiphany. Following the launch at 7:30 pm, the first module, “The Mission of God,” commenced with approximately 45 participants. The module was facilitated by Rev. Dr. Joseph Deva Komar, the Executive Director of AGT, and was conducted over two weekends: 10th–11th and 17th–18th January 2025.

Encouraged by the overwhelmingly positive response, plans are underway to establish a new chapter in Bintulu, Sarawak. The next module for Kuching, “Discipleship and the Mission of the Church,” will be taught by Canon Frederick David in May 2025 at the House of the Epiphany.