Kota Kinabalu: The people of Sabah are urged to deepen their understanding of the history behind the formation of Malaysia in conjunction with this year’s National Day and Sabah Day celebrations.
Deputy Chief Minister II Datuk Seri Masidi Manjun said understanding the nation’s history is essential for the public to fully appreciate the significance of both celebrations, which will be observed simultaneously on 31 August.
“If we combine the significance of these two celebrations, we can conclude that the existence of Malaysia began with Sabah’s independence.
“Sabah achieved independence as part of the process leading to the formation of the Federation of Malaysia.
“Therefore, it is important for every citizen to understand this chapter of our nation’s history,” he told reporters after paying a courtesy call on the Yang di-Pertua Negeri, Tun Musa Aman, at Istana Seri Kinabalu, Tuesday.
Masidi, who also chairs the Main Committee for the 2026 National Day and Sabah Day Celebrations, said the courtesy visit was held to formally invite Musa to attend both celebrations on 31 August.
Commenting on the National Day programme, Masidi said the morning celebration at Dataran Bandaraya is expected to feature a large parade.
“So far, 180 contingents have applied to participate, including uniformed and non-uniformed organisations, school contingents and various associations.
“The parade is expected to last at least two hours and we hope it will conclude by 11.00am,” he said.
Meanwhile, Masidi said this year’s Sabah Day celebration would place a strong emphasis on youth and the younger generation.
“The performances on the evening of August 31 will revolve around the theme of looking ahead, the role of young people, and how they can lead Sabah towards a brighter future.
“We believe that it is the younger generation who will determine Sabah’s future excellence and success,” he added.
Also present were Assistant Finance Minister I Datuk Ben Chong Chen Bin, Assistant Finance Minister II Datuk Sr. Mohd Ishak Ayub and City Mayor Datuk Seri Sabin Samitah.
