Kota Kinabalu: Parti Solidariti Tanah Airku (Star) Sabah President Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey Kitingan urged the younger generation to make full use of digital platforms to raise public awareness of Sabah’s constitutional history, particularly the significance of Aug 31, 1963, when British North Borneo attained self-government, officially marking the end of British colonial rule.
“It marked the beginning of self-government and independence, and the end of colonialism,” Jeffrey quoted the declaration made by the last British Governor of North Borneo, Sir William Goode, as he departed Jesselton, now known as Kota Kinabalu.
Jeffrey, who spearheaded the decades-long campaign that led to the official gazettement of Sabah Day, said understanding this historic milestone is essential in appreciating Sabah’s constitutional position as an equal partner with Malaya and Sarawak in the formation of Malaysia.
“Reviving this historical milestone is vital because it forms the very foundation of our demand for recognition as an equal partner alongside Malaya and Sarawak within the Federation of Malaysia.
“For six decades, this important chapter was largely absent from mainstream historical narratives. Today’s generation must ensure that Sabah’s true history is understood, appreciated and preserved for future generations,” he said.
Star Karambunai Chief Datuk Kapitan Stephen Teo called on local digital content creators, youth organisations and media practitioners to make greater use of digital storytelling platforms, including short-form videos, podcasts, infographics and social media content, to present Sabah’s history in ways that are more engaging and relevant to younger audiences.
“For decades, Aug 31 has been viewed primarily through the lens of Malaya’s 1957 Merdeka celebrations,” he said.
Teo said with Sabah Day now officially recognised, the local creative community has an important role in showcasing Sabah’s historical journey through engaging, factual and accessible digital content.
He said accurate and creative digital storytelling would help young Sabahans gain a deeper understanding of the State’s achievement of self-government prior to the formation of Malaysia.
