Kota Kinabalu: The State Government held high the commitment of the Sabah Council of Datuks (MDNS) to complement efforts to improve the people’s wellbeing under the Hala Tuju Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) development aspirations.
Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor said the State Government values MDNS’ commitment and that of like-minded organisations to complement its efforts.
“I am hopeful that MDNS’ efforts to make a difference will continue to make a lasting impact on the wider community,” he said at the patron’s night organised by MDNS in conjunction with the 70th official birthday of Head of State Tun Juhar Mahiruddin at Magellan Sutera.
Deputy Chief Minister I cum Agriculture, Fishery and Food Industry Minister Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey Kitingan delivered his speech.
“I am also heartened to know that MDNS is setting up a pilot project on organic farming under its community social responsibility (CSR) to assist the villagers in Kampung Purak in Papar in learning and acquiring skills in organic farming.
“It will not only be an asset to them but will eventually assist them to generate income and self-sufficiency for the villagers as mentioned by MDNS President Datuk Claudius Roman,” he said.
Despite being a small non-governmental organisation, the Chief Minister was also pleased to know that the MDNS has been active for the past few years, carrying out activities to help communities in need, including community work during the challenging Covid-19 pandemic.
“Your efforts in lifting the plight of those in need are commendable. You have reached out to orphans, the youth and seniors, victims of fire, Henry Gurney School, prison inmates, the visually impaired in our society and the unemployed youths,” he said.
He added that the Council has also helped villagers and communities by donating financial aid, food, health services, clothes, shoes and materials in the interior as well as providing opportunities to the less fortunate that can assist them in moving forward in life.
“By putting plans to action, MDNS has truly exemplified the power of commitment, dedication and teamwork,” he said.
Meanwhile, MDNS President Datuk Claudius Roman said the Council will continue to do everything in its power to assist the State Government in developing and advancing the community.
He said the MDNS has conducted numerous activities this year, including contributing to fire victims in Kg Bakau, Likas and initiating a food basket project for the underprivileged in Kemabong, Tenom, among others.
“I am confident that through MDNS, Datuks will be able to contribute more positively and in the direction of the State Government’s Hala Tuju SMJ development plan,” he said.
Earlier, the MDNS presented a mock cheque of its RM20,000 donation to the Nur Jauhar Foundation as well as RM5,000 donation to an orphan from Keningau.
