Unity, harmony in Sabah a model of Madani society
Published on: Tuesday, April 29, 2025
Published on: Tue, Apr 29, 2025
By: Iskandar Dzulkifli Text Size: Hajiji said this uniqueness reflects the beautiful togetherness in the State, demonstrated through the harmonious celebration of festivals such as Hari Raya Aidilfitri, Christmas, Chinese New Year and others. PITAS: The unity and harmony among Sabah's multi-ethnic communities serve as a model of a Madani (civil) society, living peacefully together despite differences in religion and culture. Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor said this uniqueness reflects the beautiful togetherness in the State, demonstrated through the harmonious celebration of festivals such as Hari Raya Aidilfitri, Christmas, Chinese New Year and others. 'I would like to call upon the people of Sabah to stand with the Government leadership to safeguard and further nurture this unity and harmony for the sake of our beloved Sabah. 'This is crucial as racial harmony is the key to wellbeing and happiness, and it also serves as a driving force for the State development,' he said when officiating the Sabah Islamic Dusun Organisation's (PDIS) Aidilfitri open house, here. His speech was read by Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Datuk Dr Mohd Ariffin Mohd Arif. PDIS President Datuk Harun Ismail, Pitas Assemblyman Datuk Ruddy Awah and Bengkoka Assemblyman Datuk Harun Durabi were also present. Hajiji said under his leadership, the State Government introduced and implemented the Hala Tuju Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) Development Plan 1.0 for 2021–2025 shortly after taking office. He said the plan aims to drive Sabah's development and economic growth, and these efforts have started to bear fruits through various initiatives involving the economy and people's wellbeing. He added that the initiatives also include educational assistance for children from B40 families pursuing studies at higher education institutions, such as the Registration Cash Aid (Budi). 'Also, the Special Examination Cash Aid (Bakti), flight ticket assistance for students and the Rumah Mesra SMJ initiative for underprivileged across all 73 State constituencies. 'Most recently, the Sentuhan Kasih Rakyat (Syukur) programme launched by the State Government this year is another step forward. I therefore urge all rakyat to join in supporting the mission of the Hala Tuju SMJ Development Plan. 'The Hala Tuju SMJ Development Plan aims to drive comprehensive development anchored on strong character and a robust patriotic spirit, in line with the State's motto 'Sabah Maju Jaya',' he stressed. Harun said the attendance of more than 2,000 visitors at the event reflects the enduring harmony of the people of Sabah, a result of the stability established by the Government. 'This event marks the third edition of the PDIS Open House, aimed at facilitating the delivery of welfare and social services provided by the Government,' he said. Earlier, a range of activities was held during the event, including a lucky draw, performances by local artists such as Bella Astillah and the launch of local film 'Duyung Supirak'. * Follow us on Instagram and join our Telegram and/or WhatsApp channel(s) for the latest news you don't want to miss. * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available.
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