TENOM: Sabahans, especially the younger generation, should embrace the fighting spirit of Murut warrior Datuk Seri Ontoros Endoi @ Antanom to foster unity and preserve harmony, said Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.
He said Antanom’s struggle transcended ethnic lines and was rooted in defending the rights and dignity of all communities during his time.
“Though born a Murut warrior, his courage and sacrifice for the state belong to all Sabahans. Tenom, now a rapidly developing multi-ethnic district, will continue to prosper only if its people maintain harmony and political stability,” Hajiji said in his speech at the climax of the 19th Pesta Ilau Kalimaran in Kemabong, Saturday.
window.googletag = window.googletag || {cmd: []};googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.defineSlot('/22826383987/dailyexpress_inline', [1, 1], 'gpt-passback').addService(googletag.pubads());googletag.enableServices();googletag.display('gpt-passback');});His speech was delivered by Deputy Chief Minister II Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam.
Hajiji stressed that unity in diversity would strengthen Sabah’s national standing and ensure fair economic progress for all.
He also emphasised that political stability is essential to the successful implementation of development initiatives under the Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) roadmap.
He called on Sabah’s youths to play a greater role in preserving cultural heritage, customs, and traditions as a reflection of their identity — warning that technological advancement should not erode inherited values.
The Chief Minister added that the State Government fully supports cultural festivals such as Pesta Ilau Kalimaran, which promote heritage, togetherness, and mutual respect among Sabah’s multi-ethnic communities.
Also present at the event were Kemabong Assemblyman Datuk Rubin Balang, Tenom MP Riduan Rubin, Sipitang MP Datuk Matbali Musah, and Assistant Minister II of Community Development and People’s Wellbeing Datuk Flovia Ng.