Thank you: Datuk Abidin Madingkir cutting the cake as guests and dignitaries gather on stage for the anniversary in Kota Kinabalu.
KOTA KINABALU: The Indian community in Sabah has contributed much and is an important part of society, says Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.
He said in the pre-Malaysia period, Indians arrived as police, armed forces and civil servants under British colonial rule, and after the formation of the federation of Malaysia, arrived as teachers, doctors, engineers, traders and businessmen.
“Many can fondly recall being taught by Indian teachers in school, being treated by Indian doctors and so on, up to this day,” he said.
Hajiji said this during his speech at the Sabah Indian Association 75th anniversary celebration at the Sabah International Convention Centre here last Sunday.
In expressing his gratitude to be invited as the guest of honour and to be part of the celebration, he said the Indians contributed to the early infrastructural, healthcare and educational development in Sabah, to name a few.
“They continue to do so in various aspects of the economy and nation-building. These contributions will never be forgotten and Sabah is so much the better for their presence,” he said.
Hajiji said the Sabah government appreciates all that the Indian community has contributed to the development and well-being of Sabah and its people over the decades, and will continue to support the community in whatever way possible.
Earlier, event organising chairperson Datuk Dr G. Mohan Gopal urged his fellow members and the Indian community to continue to stand together in unity, to support each other, and have faith for a better tomorrow, while continuing to provide good service to society.
“As always, we are committed to providing the best service possible to society and the state with our hospitality. Together, we can.”
Also present during the event was Indian High Commissioner to Malaysia, B.N Reddy.
During his speech, he spoke of how impressed he was with the impact of Indian teachers in the local education system, and how proud they must be with the successes of their students in many fields to uplift the socio-economic standing of the state.
