Formation of Malaysia brings blessings to people – Hajiji

KOTA KINABALU (Sept 15): The formation of Malaysia has brought numerous blessings and benefits to various layers of society across the country and in this state, said Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Noor.

He said Sabah greatly appreciates the concern shown by the Unity Government towards the people of the state and added that the journey to build this nation is still long and winding with various challenges ahead.

But in the interest of the nation, the challenges will be successfully overcome with unity, togetherness and solidarity, Hajiji said in a message in conjunction with the Malaysia Day celebration.

He called on all Malaysians to embrace the theme of this year’s Malaysia Day celebration, “Malaysia Madani: Jiwa Merdeka,” which is a very important reflection of the prosperity and progress of the country.

“Malaysia Madani, supported by six core values, reflects our vision to build a resilient, harmonious and progressive society. ‘Jiwa Merdeka’ symbolizes the freedom of Malaysians from negative elements, emphasizing patriotism and love for the country. It also involves aspects of thinking, social integration and the economy in our efforts to build a strong and harmonious unity among the people,” he said.

Hajiji pointed out that the values of Malaysia Madani align with the aspirations of the Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) policy, which serves as the government’s guide in driving the development of the state.

Through this policy, he said the government is striving to strengthen the economy, enhance the well-being of the people, and promote sustainable development.

“The combination of Malaysia Madani values and Sabah Maju Jaya is a manifestation of our determination to see Sabah and Malaysia continue to progress in an atmosphere of peace and prosperity.

“For us in Sabah, the spirit of unity and mutual respect between races will continue to be upheld in our efforts to move forward. This is because the unity and solidarity among the people are the keys to the success of Malaysia in general and Sabah in particular.

“Let us all work together to strengthen the spirit of unity and continue to work hard to ensure Malaysia remains a prosperous, sovereign and respected nation on the international stage,” he stressed.

Hajiji said the Malaysia Day celebration to all Malaysians is a time to remember and celebrate the historic moment of our nation 61 years ago.

“It was at that time that an agreement was signed to unite the two regions, Sabah and Sarawak, with Malaya, to form a sovereign and independent nation under one flag, one country.

“May this year’s Malaysia Day celebration inspire and give us all new strength to continue the struggle to ensure a brighter future for our country,” he said.