A group of Australian retirees traveled to Kahubu village in Sarawak, Malaysia, in July to assist in constructing a new Seventh-day Adventist church as part of a fly’n’build mission trip.

Over a 12-day period, the volunteer team worked alongside local church members and villagers to build brick walls for the church structure. Ron Weir, a volunteer from Western Australia, served as building leader, supervising construction and ensuring adherence to safety and quality standards. Local contractors managed the flooring and roof installation.

“In every way, this journey was a testament to the truth that servant hearts don’t come with age limits,” said Hillview church member and trip participant Mary Fedorow.

Despite challenges such as high temperatures, limited infrastructure, and language barriers, the volunteers and local community collaborated closely throughout the project.

“Mission trips like this one leave lasting memories—and build more than just walls,” said another team member.

This was the 14th fly’n’build initiative coordinated by Adventist pastor Calvyn Townend, who began visiting Sarawak in 2008 to conduct evangelistic meetings. As local interest in the Adventist message grew and new members joined the church, he identified the need for permanent worship spaces. Since then, he has organized multiple building trips, often with teams composed of Australian retirees.

Located in a remote part of Borneo, Kahubu has limited access to religious infrastructure. At 86 years old, Townend continues to actively support mission work across Sarawak, helping meet both spiritual and practical needs in underserved communities.

The original article was published on the South Pacific Division news site. Join the ANN WhatsApp Channel for the latest Adventist news.