The Southern Asia-Pacific Division (SSD) of the Seventh-day Adventist Church has appointed Pastor Francis Amer as the new Stewardship Ministries Director, following the election of Pastor Jibil Simbah as the president of the Sabah Mission. Pastor Amer brings with him decades of experience in ministry, leadership, and education, making him a valuable addition to the SSD team. His appointment will take effect on January 1, 2025.
The decision was made during an online meeting of the Southern Asia-Pacific Division Executive Committee on December 13, 2024, via Zoom, convened to address the vacancy left by Pastor Simbah’s transition to his new leadership role. After a careful review of potential candidates, the committee selected Pastor Amer, whose extensive experience and unwavering commitment to the mission of the church made him the ideal choice.
Pastor Amer previously served as the Vice President for NDR-IEL and Ministerial Association Secretary for the Malaysia Union Mission (MAUM), where he provided strategic leadership and spiritual guidance. His journey in ministry began in 1982 as an attachment teacher at a government primary school. Over the years, he has taken on diverse roles, including district pastor, director for Youth, Communication, and Sabbath School, and head chaplain for Penang Adventist Hospital. His career reflects a commitment to fostering holistic development in both spiritual and organizational settings.
Under Pastor Amer’s leadership, various departments flourished, including the Chaplaincy and Counseling Ministries. His tenure as the PARL and Chaplaincy Director for the Southeast Asia Union Mission in Singapore further demonstrates his dedication to promoting Adventist values across the region.
Born and raised with a passion for mission, Pastor Amer is supported by his wife, Grace Ng Gim Bee, who holds a Master’s degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Accounting from Walla Walla College, USA. They are proud parents of two accomplished children: Dr. Shilynn Francis, a dentist at Penang Adventist Hospital, and Sherwin Francis, who is currently completing his law degree while working in Singapore.
The SSD leadership expressed their gratitude to Pastor Jibil Simbah for his years of dedicated service as Stewardship Ministries Director and wished him God’s blessings in his new role as president of the Sabah Mission. They also warmly welcomed Pastor Amer to his new role, where his wealth of experience and vision will undoubtedly enhance the church’s stewardship initiatives across the region.
Pastor Amer’s appointment comes at a crucial time as the Southern Asia-Pacific Division continues to promote faithful stewardship as a core principle of its mission. His leadership is expected to inspire church members to embrace a life of commitment, responsibility, and service to God.
Edward Rodriguez
Email: erodriguez@ssd.org