By WU VUIDE
KOTA KINABALU: Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor called on the people to continue supporting efforts to realise the Sabah Government’s development agenda.
“My aspiration as Chief Minister is to chart a development pathway for Sabah and her people, which is vital to ensure the continuity of development,” he said at the opening ceremony of the 2026 Chinese New Year Dragon, Unicorn and Lion Dance Festival, held in conjunction with the upcoming Lunar New Year at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC).
Hajiji’s speech was delivered by Assistant Minister to the Chief Minister Datuk Ceasar Mandela Malakun.
He also commended the United Sabah Chinese Communities Association Kota Kinabalu (USCCAKK) for consistently organising the event and making it an annual cultural celebration.
People from all walks of life eagerly await the festival, which serves as a platform to promote tolerance and mutual acceptance in building a shared future.
“That is why cultural and festive celebrations among Sabah’s communities of different religions, ethnicities and cultures form a unique identity of the state.
“In Sabah, cultural and festive celebrations of each group have become traditions, helping to strengthen unity and harmony among Sabah’s many diverse communities,” he said.
According to the Chinese zodiac, 2026 is the Year of the Fire Horse, associated with change, innovation and courage, and offering great opportunities.
“Therefore, the spirit and energy of the Year of the Horse should be harnessed collectively to bring about greater economic development, social progress and improved well-being for the people of this state.
“The government wishes to share this vision of hope by continuing its development agenda to revitalise the economy for the state and its people,” he said.
Also present were USCCAKK President Datuk Susan Wong, Chinese leaders including a deputy minister and former Cabinet ministers, as well as community leaders, who jointly beat the drums to launch the event.
Ceasar (centre), together with Susan, invited guests, Chinese associations and community leaders, beating the drums to mark the opening of the festival.
