Uniting for a common goal: Bangkuai (centre, with sunglasses) and Huazong president Tan Sri TC Goh (to his left) lighting the torch for the 38th National Chinese Cultural Festival 2023 celebration in Tuaran.
KOTA KINABALU: The Sabah government is on track in its development under the Hala Tuju Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) road map, says Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.
The RM7bil in revenue collected by the state last year, which surpassed the initial target of RM6bil, was proof of this success, he said.
However, he said that all these plans would only succeed if the environment was conducive to pursuing the development goals.
“For this to happen, it is crucial that we have political stability,” he said at the launch of the Tuaran Torch Run in conjunction with the 38th National Chinese Cultural Festival at the Ling San Temple in Tuaran district, about 40km from here, yesterday.
The text of his speech was read out by state Tourism, Culture and Environment Assistant Minister Datuk Joniston Bangkuai.
Hajiji called on Sabahans to unite for the common goal of developing the state.
“We must discard any form of divisiveness that will only pull us all apart.
“Let us join hands to realise the four growth pillars to support the state’s development agenda of ‘Sabah First, Sabah Forward, Sabah Prosper and Sabah United’. We can do this.
“The state government will not rest on its laurels but will continue to bring in more investments to the state that can create more economic spin-offs,” he added.
Towards this end, Hajiji said he appreciated the continuous support of the Chinese community and the state government’s standing by it as partners in progress in every sphere of development.
“The Sabah government has always safeguarded the interests of all communities, including those of the Chinese in the state.
“We have supported many Chinese-led associations or organised activities and programmes, especially those that touched on culture, commerce, welfare and education, through partnerships and financial support,” he said.
On the Torch Run, Hajiji said it was significant as the event had rallied the Chinese community to promote their culture and heritage to the people.
“The people of Sabah, regardless of race, religion, culture and beliefs, have long lived in harmony, respecting differences while preserving their cultural identity.
“This is the essence of unity in diversity, which we have all been very proud of and fortunate to enjoy,” he said.
