Kota Kinabalu: Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor paid tribute to the Chinese community as a partner of the State Government in development.
“The State Government appreciates the continuous support from the Chinese community, who have stood by us as a partner in every development sector.”
He said Sabah’s development is on the right track under the Sabah Maju Jaya plan.
“Our success is evident with tax revenue collection amounting to RM7 billion.
“The State Government will continue to bring more investments to the state that could create more economic spin-offs,” he said, when closing the Kota Kinabalu Torch Run of the 38th National Chinese Cultural Festival 2023 at Kota Kinabalu Community Hall here, Sunday.
His speech was read by Assistant Minister to the Chief Minister, Datuk Abidin Madingkir.
Hajiji said the successes and future planning would be in vain without a conducive environment to achieve Sabah’s development goals.
“For this to happen, it is important that we have political stability. We must discard any form of divisiveness that could break us apart.
“Let us join hands to realise the four growth pillars to support the state’s development agenda of ‘Sabah First, Sabah Forward, Sabah Prosper and Sabah United’. We can do this.”
Meanwhile, Hajiji said the torch run was significant for many reasons. Firstly, he said the programme brought together the Chinese community to promote their rich cultural heritage to the people.
He said the torch run also united people from different racial backgrounds with the aim to spread cultural awareness.
“Sabahans irrespective of race, religion, culture and faith have long lived in harmony and mutual respect whilst still maintain their own cultural identity.
“This is the true essence of unity in diversity that we are all proud of and fortunate to be a part of.”
Hajiji said the Sabah State Government appreciates and will always safeguard the interests of all communities, including the Chinese, in Sabah.
“We will continue to support various activities and programmes organized by Chinese associations, particularly those related to culture, commercial, welfare and education.”
He is also pleased to see the overwhelming support for cultural activities from the Chinese community.
He said the Chinese assembly halls under The Federation of Chinese Associations Malaysia (Huazong) have given their full support and resources to make the annual National Chinese Cultural Festival a success.
He said Huazong president Tan Sri T.C. Goh, organizing chairlady Datuk Susan Wong and the organizing team are exemplars for showing commitment and dedication to ensure the success of the event.
