KOTA KINABALU: The National Day celebration on Saturday (Aug 31) which coincides for the time with the state marking Sabah Day should be embraced in the spirit of patriotism, says Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.
He said Sabah Day is more meaningful this year as it would be celebrated together with National Day henceforth.
He said Aug 31 is important and rooted in history, not just for remembrance and celebrations but to kindle the spirit of patriotism as well as appreciate the courage and sacrifices of the country's freedom fighters.
In this respect, he called upon Malaysians in Sabah to be steadfast in protecting the country's sovereignty and continue to celebrate the occasion in high spirits and humility as independence is a priceless gift.
“The things that unite us – peace, harmony, unity in diversity and our aspirations for progress and development – far outweigh those that divide us.
"Let us keep in our hearts that the National Day and Sabah Day celebrations belong to us. Let us stand firm in support of the government and not be influenced by negativities that threaten to divide us," he said in his National Day and Sabah Day 2024 message.
Hajiji said this year's National Day theme "Malaysia Madani: Jiwa Merdeka" demonstrates the Federal Government's commitment to continue developing a just and prosperous society.
It also symbolises the freedom Malaysians enjoy from any negative elements, he added.
The state government has gazetted Aug 31 as Sabah Day to mark the state's independence from British colonial rule in 1963.
