Kota Kinabalu: Newly-appointed Assistant Secretary General of StarSabah, Prem Kitingan, praised the State Government’s decision to gazette Sabah Day as a significant step towards recognising the State’s unique history and position within Malaysia.
In a statement, the Tambunan Division Youth Chief emphasised the importance of acknowledging Sabah’s independence date of August 31, 1963, just as Sarawak recognises July 22, 1963, as its independence day.
He argued that this recognition strengthens Sabah’s position in pursuing its rights and differentiates it from other states in Malaya, reflecting the equal partnership of Sabah, Sarawak, and Malaya in forming Malaysia.
The youth leader cited historical evidence, including a quote from Sir William Goode, the last Governor of British North Borneo, who declared August 31, 1963, as the beginning of Sabah’s self-government and independence.
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He praised the efforts of Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey Kitingan and various NGOs and political parties in pursuing Sabah’s rights and correcting historical facts.
Drawing parallels with Sarawak’s prosperity since recognising its independence date in 2016, Prem expressed hope that Sabah would see similar benefits in the coming years.
He called on all Sabahans to unite in celebrating Aug 31 as Sabah’s Independence Day, while continuing to commemorate September 16 as Malaysia Day.
He expressed confidence in the leadership of GRS and StarSabah in fulfilling the aspirations of the Sabahan people.
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