Kota Kinabalu: Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor advised the people not to be easily swayed by negative elements out to jeopardise unity.
“It is imperative for all of us to stay united and protect our peace, harmony and political stability to ensure Sabah’s progress and development,” he said.
He said the State’s growth and economy would be impeded without political stability.
He attributed the State Government’s achievement last year in collecting nearly RM7 billion in revenue and attracting RM1.7 billion in domestic and foreign investments to political stability.
“I wish to thank the people of Sabah for their continuous support and trust in the GRS-PH Government to lead the State,” he said at the launch of the Chinese New Year Carnival at Padang Merdeka, here, Friday night.
His speech was read by State Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Seri Christina Liew.
The Chief Minister said the State Government has allocated RM70 million, the highest ever for Chinese and missionary schools as well as non-Muslim houses of worship, this year.
“This is proof of the State Government’s commitment to fulfil the needs of each group,” he said. Hajiji said the State Government’s commitment to supporting all the people’s programmes without prejudice should never be doubted.
He also believed that the Chinese New Year Carnival was not only attended by the Chinese community but also other communities of different races and beliefs in Sabah.
“We celebrate each other’s festivals together which has greatly galvanised unity among the multi-racial and multi-religious people in the State,” he said.
Hajiji also expressed gratitude to the Chinese community in Sabah for strongly supporting the State Government in ensuring the Hala Tuju Sabah Maju Jaya development agenda could proceed smoothly.
He commended City Hall (DBKK) and the Federation of Chinese Associations Sabah (FCAS) for working closely together to ensure the carnival’s success.
