Kota Kinabalu: Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey Kitingan said the State Government will look at the need to gazette Sabah Day on August 31.
“It’s just a matter of formality to put it on record. If it (Sabah Day) is not gazetted, we will gazette it.
“When I checked the record, Sabah Day has already been declared a holiday from the beginning, 60 years ago,” he told reporters when met after he represented the Chief Minister to officiate the Heart of Borneo (HoB) International Conference: An Ecosystem That Provides at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC), here, Wednesday.
He was asked whether there is a need to gazette Sabah Day. Inviting all the people of Sabah to celebrate Sabah Day, Jeffrey said this year’s Malaysia Day holds a deeper significance for Sabahans, as Sabah Day will be officially celebrated for the first time in six decades.
SPONSORED CONTENT Daily Express members: Enjoy 1 for 1 signature cocktails and more at Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu Kota Kinabalu: DAILY EXPRESS is partnering with Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu to offer an exclusive deal for our members. Read more Jeffrey said he was elated that after years of fighting for Sabah Day to be recognised, the current Gabungan Rakyat Sabah-led (GRS) Government has now made the right decision by endorsing and recognising the historic event.
“This recognition is not just symbolic but a true reflection of Sabah’s integral role within the Malaysian federation.”
Jeffrey said political parties like Star, SAPP and UBF have consistently commemorated Sabah’s Independence Day for many years despite the absence of official recognition from previous state governments.
“Their unwavering dedication reflects the resilient spirit of Sabah people and their passion for preserving their history.
“So, this will be a special day not only for those of us who have been promoting and celebrating this event but also for all Sabahans who share the spirit of celebrating Sabah’s heritage,” he said.
Jeffrey emphasised that the event underscores the growing importance of preserving cultural legacies.
“As the chairman of this event which will be held in Tambunan on August 31, I invite Sabahans to come together in their traditional attire as we celebrate our cultural identities and diversity that make up Sabah’s heritage,” he said.
Jeffrey said the day’s programmes will include a lively parade, historical exhibitions, cultural performances and a traditional market (Tamu), which the organisers hope will provide attendees with an immersive experience of Sabah’s journey to independence.
In addition, there will be the raising of Sabah’s original flag, the signing of giant Sabah flags and fireworks displays, among other activities.
He said the organisers are considering the coordination of online forums and workshops on Aug 30 to provide opportunities for learning and engagement.
“We aim to create a space where people can connect, learn, and celebrate together. It’s a chance to rediscover our roots and inspire a new generation to take pride in our unique heritage,” he said.
The celebration for this year’s Sabah Day will take place at Tambunan Sports Complex at 3pm and to continue at the Pisompuruan Square Hall at 6pm.
On Aug 21, Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Haji Noor announced that Sabah will celebrate Sabah Day on Aug 31 to commemorate the day it became an independent nation 60 years ago.
He said the State Cabinet made the decision during its meeting last week and has chosen Tambunan as the venue for the inaugural celebrations.
“It was also decided that the celebrations to mark Sabah’s important historical milestone, will be celebrated annually with the venue to be rotated among the districts,” said the Chief Minister.
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