Kota Kinabalu: Christmas and Chinese New Year celebrations at the state level will be officially organised by the government starting this year.
Chief Minister, Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor said the takeover of these celebrations is being undertaken for the first time by the state government, something that has never been done before.
“Starting this year, in February, we officially began celebrating Chinese New Year at the state level, organised by the government.
“Same goes to this year’s Christmas celebration, which was organised by City Hall (DBKK). Starting next year it will be celebrated at the state level chaired by Sabah Minister of Youth and Sports Datuk Ellron Angin,” he said.
He was speaking at a Christmas luncheon with the President of Parti Gagasan Rakyat Sabah (PGRS) in conjunction with Christmas on Saturday.
Hajiji said, the purpose of the celebrations being organised by the State Government is to foster mutual respect and unity among the people of Sabah by celebrating major festivities in the state.
“For us, celebrating diversity is something very positive, as it has been practised by our ancestors for generations through their respective celebrations.
“We must create a harmonious environment for our multiracial society, especially when celebrating each other’s religious festivities.
“This is what we aim to bring into the administration of the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) government, to provide equal treatment to every citizen in this state, regardless of religion, race, or ethnicity.
“I hope with the good spirit of Christmas and the New Year, we can strengthen our bonds, unity, and harmony,” he said.
Hajiji presented contributions to 16 students from Woorijib St Francis Xavier Care Centre, Kampung Potuki.
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