Hajiji Calls On Sabahans To Use Shared Spaces To Strengthen Mutual Understanding

KOTA KINABALU, Aug 1 (Bernama) -- Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor says every individual has a responsibility to ensure that shared spaces, whether in schools, workplaces, business premises, houses of worship, or even the digital sphere, are used to strengthen mutual understanding rather than sow division.

He emphasised that Sabahans must cultivate a sense of responsibility to preserve the harmony enjoyed at present, calling it the most valuable legacy for future generations.

“Sabah’s strength lies in its unity amid ethnic and religious diversity. This uniqueness should be a source of pride and must be safeguarded for our continued strength and prosperity,” he said.

Hajiji was speaking at the launch of the National Month, Sabah Day, and Fly the Jalur Gemilang campaign 2025 here today, attended by state Cabinet ministers, federal and state department heads, and representatives from relevant agencies.

He said the launch was more than symbolic; it was a call for the people to embrace the true meaning of independence, which is not only freedom from colonial rule but also liberation from poverty and division.

He said the National Day and Sabah Day celebrations held every August serve as a historic reminder of the sacrifices made by the nation’s forebears in defending the homeland and preserving the dignity of the people. 

On Sabah’s development progress, Hajiji said the Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) Development Plan 1.0 had achieved encouraging results, with an average implementation rate of 94 percent across 467 planned initiatives as of May this year.

He said agriculture, industry, and tourism remain the priority sectors, alongside strengthening human capital, public well-being, infrastructure networks and environmental sustainability.

“Various forms of public assistance have also been provided, including improved access to education and the introduction of the Sabah People’s Protection Insurance Scheme, which offers comprehensive benefits to Sabahans,” he said.

Hajiji also launched the Sabah-level Kembara Merdeka Jalur Gemilang convoy, which will travel 2,500 kilometres over 20 days across 27 districts, involving 20 agencies and 60 participants.

-- BERNAMA