TENOM: Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor has called on the people, especially the younger generation, to draw inspiration from the legacy of Murut warrior Datuk Seri Ontoros Endoi @ Antanom in strengthening unity and safeguarding the state’s dignity.
He said Antanom was not only a symbol of Murut bravery but also a true fighter who defended the rights of all people regardless of ethnicity.
“His struggle was not based on tribal sentiment but on protecting the rights and dignity of all communities of his time,” Hajiji said in a speech read by Deputy Chief Minister cum Local Government and Housing Minister Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam at the 19th Kalimaran Festival in Kemabong on Saturday.
window.googletag = window.googletag || {cmd: []};googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.defineSlot('/22826383987/dailyexpress_inline', [1, 1], 'gpt-passback').addService(googletag.pubads());googletag.enableServices();googletag.display('gpt-passback');});Hajiji said Antanom’s spirit showed the value of the homeland and the people’s self-worth, which must be preserved by all Sabahans.
While born a Murut warrior, he said Antanom’s fighting spirit and sacrifices belonged to every citizen, and Tenom’s continued growth as a multi-ethnic district depended on harmony and political stability.
He stressed that political stability was vital for implementing development policies under the Sabah Maju Jaya roadmap, while cultural heritage must be preserved with active youth participation to ensure traditions and values are passed down.
Hajiji added that state cultural events like the Kalimaran Festival helped promote heritage, strengthen identity, and nurture mutual respect among Sabah’s diverse communities, providing a strong foundation for political stability and economic progress.