Christmas a symbol of harmony and family spirit, says Sipitang MP

SIPITANG (Dec 26): Christmas celebrations are not merely religious observances but also symbols of harmony and the spirit of family that must be preserved, said Datuk Matbali Musah.

Matbali, who is Sipitang MP, said festive occasions such as Christmas should serve as platforms to strengthen unity, tolerance and mutual understanding among the people, regardless of religious or racial backgrounds.

Speaking during his visits to open houses at Kg Long Pasia and several other villages here on Christmas Day, as well as to the Kg Long Pasia SIB Church, Matbali urged that such celebrations continue to be protected, especially in rural places like Long Pasia.

Matbali was continuing his tradition of serving and visiting the multiracial and multi-religious community, focusing mainly on rural areas within the Sindumin State Constituency, as a manifestation of his commitment to strengthening relations and harmony among the district’s multiracial communities.

In addition, he attended the open house celebration of homestay operator Balang Singa, as a show of support for the community’s participation in the village tourism sector, which continues to grow in rural Sipitang.

Also present were the chairman of the Sabah Agriculture and Food Industry Ministry (KOTANI), Liaw Sin Kuang, and former Sabah football player Mafry Balang.