KOTA KINABALU: The spirit of unity among the people of various races and religions in the State must be continued and strengthened, said Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.
He said the diversity of races and religions has long been the core strength of the people of Sabah.
“Therefore, in conjunction with the Kaamatan Festival celebration, I hope that the spirit of unity among the people needs to be continued and strengthened,” he said in his Kaamatan Festival message, Sunday.
“Hopefully, the diversity of cultures and races can unite all levels of society in the State.”
In line with this year’s Kaamatan theme, “Kaamatan Ensouls Nature”, the Chief Minister hopes that the people will continue to appreciate and preserve the treasures of nature for the sake of future generations.
He said Sabah, which is rich in natural gems which have also made the State well known as a tourist destination that offers international-standard flora and fauna to tourists from within and outside the country.
"Traditionally, the Kaamatan Festival is a sign of our thankfulness for the cultivated padi.
“Thus, we must always remember that the values in Kaamatan celebration also represent nature as a whole.
"Kaamatan is also very close to the context of the mandate given by our ancestors to us and one of them is the trust given to us to take care of the natural treasures in this State,” he said.
On behalf of the State Government, Hajiji also wished a happy Kaamatan Festival to all the Kadazan Dusun Murut communities who celebrated it.
"Celebrate this festival with joy but always maintain self-control," he said.
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