KOTA KINABALU: Sabah Day is proof that the state decided to be part of the Malaysian Federation, says Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.
He said that when Sabah gained its independence on Aug 31, 1963, it did not recognise any regional demands or claims from within the region at the time.
He said the sovereignty of Sabah in the Federation of Malaysia cannot be questioned now because the people of this state have chosen to form the nation of Malaysia together.
"Sabah Day is celebrated together with National Day on Aug 31, it is a very historic day.
"It is proof of the patriotism of Sabahans who got freedom from the colonialists and Sabah is part of the country of Malaysia," he said at the first Sabah Day celebrations held at Padang Merdeka here on Saturday (Aug 31) night.
The Federation of Malaysia was formed on Sept 16, 1963.
He said the future of the state lies in the people's own hands, adding that Sabahans must work together as a united front to ensure the state continues to progress and prosper.
"The government will continue to strive to improve the standard of living of the people and ensure balanced development throughout the state," Hajiji said at the celebrations launched by Yang di-Pertuan Negeri Tun Juhar Mahirrudin.
The Chief Minister said the celebration of Sabah Day is not just about celebrating achievements but also appreciating and remembering the long journey that has been travelled to achieve independence.
He said the state government today is always trying to improve the economy and improve the standard of living of the people.
"We believe a close relationship with the Federal Government will facilitate all matters including those involving the Malaysia Agreement 1963 as well as issues related to development and nationhood," he said.
In the meantime, Hajiji said the state government will continue to support the development of Sabah Maju Jaya in line with the spirit of Malaysia Madani as it aims to see the country rapidly develop and become an internationally respected global player.
He added that Sabah remains investor friendly with RM11.34bil investments in 2023 and was now exploring potential of its marine resources under the Blue Economy towards increasing the state's economic growth.
Meanwhile, Sabah Day organising chairman Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey Kitingan said that gazetting of Sabah Day recognises Sabah independence which the federal government also respected as part of the history of Malaysia.
The Deputy Chief Minister I said that Sabah Day should be taught as part of history for students in secondary and higher learning institutions.
"Sabah Day has been overlooked because the gazetting will provide proper knowledge for the people and leaders of Sabah of their history," he said.
