Respecting differences key to unity, says Sabah CM

TAMPARULI (March 1): Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Noor has called on the people to continue respecting differences among one another in order to strengthen unity and harmony within the state’s multi-racial society.

“Strong unity can only be achieved when the people stand together and appreciate the diversity that exists within our community,” he said when officiating at the 2026 Angpow Festival organised by the Chung Fook Tong Association in collaboration with 10 other Chinese associations at Dewan Tun Hamdan, here on Saturday night.

His speech was delivered by Assistant Minister to the Chief Minister, Datuk Ceasar Mandela Malakun.

According to Hajiji, the Sabah state government consistently supports programmes that enhance unity among the people, racial harmony, and social and cultural development, in line with the aspirations of the ‘Hala Tuju Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ)’.

“This Angpow Festival proves that close cooperation between the government and community organisations can bring great benefits to the well-being of the people,” he said.

The Chief Minister also reiterated his hope that the people will continue to work alongside the government as partners to strengthen unity and maintain political stability for the wellbeing of the people and the smooth implementation of state development through the SMJ 2.0.

“I also hope that the Chinese community will continue to be a strategic partner of the state government in driving the state’s development,” he said.

Hajiji said the Angpow Festival serves as an important platform to preserve, continue and share the culture and noble values of the Chinese community with all the people.

He noted that such efforts also create opportunities for local culture to be recognised more widely, including at the international level.

“Even more encouraging, the organisation of this festival promotes participation from various races, in line with Sabah’s identity as a peaceful, harmonious and tolerant state.

“This is our true strength, diversity celebrated together, not differences that divide us,” he said.