SANDAKAN: The Indian community’s role in Sabah’s development is highly valued, particularly in contributing to the local economy.
Sandakan Municipal Council (MPS) President Walter Kenson said although Indians make up only 0.4 per cent of the State’s population, their contributions remain significant to the broader community.
He noted that their involvement through associations and individual efforts also helped maintain social harmony.
Walter said this during a press conference at the Aidilfitri Open House organised by the Persatuan Gabungan Komuniti India Sabah, in collaboration with the Sabah Muslim Chamber of Commerce and the Persatuan Masyarakat India Muslim Sandakan, at the Dewan Pandu Puteri Sandakan. Among those present were Sandakan District Deputy Police Chief Supt Ramasamy Kuppan, Persatuan Gabungan Komuniti India Sabah President Datuk A. Nagaraju, Sabah Muslim Chamber of Commerce Chairman Datuk Abdul Baree Habeeb and Tanjong Papat Central Liaison Committee Chairman Thomas Lau.
The event also featured charity donations to the asnaf, single mothers, persons with disabilities and the underprivileged.
Walter commended the event for fostering unity and celebrating Malaysia’s multicultural festivities.
“I hope the association can serve as a model for others in preserving harmony,” he said.
Nagaraju said the gathering celebrated Malaysia’s diverse festivals while strengthening bonds within the community.
