If there was ever one unified voice around the Malay world, it would be that of the Catholic church. Unlike other political and religious movements around Borneo throughout they years, these folks are calm, apologetic, unagressive and generally very altruistic to the communities they work with. The Christian population around Sabah, Sarawak and Brunei continue to bloom and are treated with utmost respect thanks to the missionary movements led by preachers and pastors during the past centuries.

This book takes a look at the achievements made, and difficulties faced, by the London-based Mill Hill Missionaries in particular who have certainly had a significant impact towards government and society around North Borneo. They are a minority against a predominantly Malay Muslim arena intending to spread 'the Good News' to the peoples of the country. Mission schools, churches and seminaries are some of the instiutions they have successfully placed in different areas to harbor the growing Christian population.

The author is a reverend who worked in Sabah as a missionary. Khabar Gembira highlights the importance of the Catholic movement which continues to flourish today that adopts a uniquely 'North Bornean' identity as it has integrated itself within the local societies. In Brunei for example, Christianity enjoys a peaceful coexistence*, one that by all means isn't quiet and private at all and becomes easily accessible for Christian individuals and families (all 9.7% of them).

Now, I wonder where I can pick up a copy of a Malay bible in Brunei.

*Not all the time however as some become subject to investigation by the authorities.