Kota Kinabalu: The State Government always ensures equitable development to make sure no ethnic group is marginalised in Sabah, including in cultural aspects, said Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.
He said this is in line with the Government’s commitment to always practise tolerance and moderation in all policies, encouraging each ethnic group, including the Chinese community, in Sabah to continue and advance their respective cultures.
He said the Government has also allocated a total of RM56.75 million for non-Islamic religious bodies, missionaries, national-type schools and private schools in Sabah this year.
“This total allocation is an increase by RM2.7 million compared to RM54.05 million last year. This increase in allocation shows the State Government is very concerned and serious about helping the people in Sabah regardless of race, ethnicity and religion,” he said at the Federation of Chinese Associations Sabah (FCAS) 30th Anniversary Celebration Dinner and Swearing-in Ceremony of the 14th Term Central Committee Members at Hakka Hall.
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Hajiji said for a long time, FCAS has also played an important role in helping the Government improve the State’s economy and hoped the unity and close cooperation within FCAS would be translated to support and help the Government further enhance development in Sabah.
“I want this role to continue to support the Government’s efforts, especially in realising various initiatives in the Sabah Maju Jaya Development Plan. With FCAS’s wide influence, expertise and network, I am confident that this federation will benefit from all government initiatives and play a role in efforts to help the State, especially in bringing more investors,” he said.
Hajiji congratulated FCAS which has turned 30 on its initiative to purchase a four-storey building in Kg Air, here, as Wisma FCAS.
“It is timely for FCAS to have its own building in Kota Kinabalu City. Wisma FCAS is a symbol of unity and cooperation among all Chinese associations and also all Chinese communities in Sabah and Labuan.
“Thirty years is quite a long time and it’s not easy for an organisation to be well and smoothly administered. Congratulations to FCAS and happy 30th birthday,” he said.
Hajiji is confident that the partnership of Tan Sri Dr TC Goh and Datuk Susan Wong, who have once again been chosen to lead FCAS for the 14th term, will contribute more to the Chinese community and ensure a close and good relationship with the State Government.
In conjunction with the month of independence, Hajiji hopes the harmony and peace enjoyed by the multi-racial people and the State so far will continue to be maintained and preserved.
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