By WU VUIDE
KOTA KINABALU: The Ministry of National Unity, through the National Archives of Malaysia, organised the Commemoration of Statesman Tun Fuad Stephens programme themed “Huguan Siou’s Legacy in Building the Nation” at a hotel.
Minister of National Unity Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang said the programme was part of efforts to preserve the nation’s historical memory and recognise the contributions of figures who shaped Malaysia’s nation-building journey.
In his speech, Aaron highlighted Tun Fuad Stephens’ role in Sabah’s development and the formation of Malaysia in 1963.
He said Tun Fuad, whose original name was Donald Aloysius Marmaduke Stephens, played a significant role in negotiations leading to the formation of Malaysia, including efforts to safeguard Sabah’s rights and interests through the Malaysia Agreement 1963 and the 20-Point Agreement.
Aaron said Tun Fuad also contributed to strengthening Sabah’s identity through the adoption of the name Sabah in place of North Borneo and supported the recognition of the Kaamatan Festival as an official celebration.
He noted that Tun Fuad founded the United National Kadazan Organisation (UNKO) in 1961 and was involved in publishing the North Borneo News and Sabah Times newspapers, which served as platforms for public discourse before the formation of Malaysia.
Aaron said Tun Fuad was recognised as Huguan Siou, or Paramount Leader, and played a role in fostering unity among Sabah’s diverse communities and strengthening ties between Sabah, Peninsular Malaysia and Sarawak.
He also referred to Tun Fuad’s decision to dissolve UNKO in 1967 and merge it with the United Sabah National Organisation (USNO), describing it as an effort to promote political unity and stability.
Aaron said the ministry’s nation-building agenda was a continuation of efforts undertaken by earlier leaders involved in the formation of Malaysia and the strengthening of inter-ethnic cooperation.
He said nation-building required the participation of government institutions, educational bodies, civil society, the private sector and the public.
According to him, the process aimed to strengthen national identity, social cohesion and shared values while addressing contemporary challenges such as globalisation, political differences, social media influences and cultural diversity.
Aaron also encouraged the public to visit the National Leaders Memorial on Jalan Dato’ Onn in Kuala Lumpur, which houses collections and exhibition materials related to Tun Fuad Stephens.
He later officiated the Commemoration of Statesman Tun Fuad Stephens programme.
Aaron (second, right), during the programme.
