THE affection for Sabah and loyalty to Malaysia should not be seen as separate or conflicting sentiments because the two are fundamentally inseparable, said State Finance Minister Datuk Seri Masidi Manjun.
He stressed that loving Sabah naturally means loving Malaysia because the State forms an essential part of the federation.
“Sometimes we ask ourselves why we are encouraged to love Sabah so much. The truth is, when we love Sabah, we are also loving Malaysia because Sabah is part of Malaysia,” he told reporters after the launch of the State-level National Month and Fly the Jalur Gemilang Campaign, Saturday. Masidi, who is also Deputy Chief Minister II, said there should not be a distinction between being pro-Sabah and pro-Malaysia, arguing that both identities complement each other.
“We are not choosing whether to love Sabah more or Malaysia more. The two are part of one,” he said, adding that whenever Sabah is discussed, it is also a discussion about Malaysia because the State is one of the country’s key components.
Acknowledging that some people may hold different views due to historical or political reasons, he said Sabahans should instead focus on their role in shaping the State’s future within Malaysia.
Masidi encouraged Sabahans to reflect on the role they can play in the State’s continued development, saying everyone has a part to contribute towards Sabah’s and the nation’s progress.
“It is important for citizens to see themselves as part of the country’s broader development agenda and to work together in achieving shared goals,” he added.
He emphasised that Sabah’s development would be strengthened through the collective efforts of both the Government and the people, encouraging the public to contribute ideas and play an active role in addressing challenges together.
He also cautioned against comparing Sabah’s development directly with other regions, saying every state has different priorities and challenges.
“Every place has its own development agenda. What is suitable for one place may not be suitable for another,” he explained, referring specifically to Sabah and Sarawak as the two Bornean states have distinct circumstances and should not be treated as though their development needs are identical.
Instead, he said, Sabah must continue determining its own development priorities based on the needs of its people.
Masidi expressed confidence in the State’s direction, as ongoing improvements in infrastructure and public facilities would help Sabah achieve its development goals, provided the public and government work together.
He concluded by reminding Sabahans that nation-building is a shared responsibility and that strengthening Sabah ultimately strengthens Malaysia.
