KOTA KINABALU: Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor has called on Sabahans to continue strengthening unity, uphold mutual respect and support efforts that contribute to the nation’s progress.
He said unity is not just a slogan but the foundation of political stability, economic growth and the people’s well-being.
“When the people are united, the nation is strong. When the economy grows, the people enjoy a better quality of life. And when peace is maintained, Malaysia will continue to be a respected nation,” he said at the State-Level Intellectual Discourse programme at Wisma Muis here.
Hajiji’s speech was delivered by Local Government and Housing Minister Datuk Dr Mohd Ariffin Arif.
He said the world is facing growing geopolitical tensions that continue to threaten global stability.
“In many countries, wars, economic crises, inflation, political conflicts and humanitarian disasters have deprived people of peace, jobs, homes and hope.
“When peace breaks down and economies weaken, the future of the people becomes uncertain,” he said.
Despite the global turmoil, Hajiji said Malaysians, especially Sabahans, should be grateful that the state continues to enjoy peace, unity and harmony among its multi-racial and multi-religious communities.
Hajiji said the peace and stability enjoyed today were not by chance but the result of continuous efforts by the State and Federal Governments to safeguard stability, strengthen the economy, protect social harmony and look after the people’s welfare.
He urged the public to remain open-minded when assessing international issues while exercising independent judgment and not being easily influenced by narratives that could undermine national harmony.
He said the programme provides an important platform to improve public understanding of current international issues. – Wu Vuide
Ariffin (seated, centre), with the participants of the Sabah State-Level Intellectual Discourse programme at Wisma Muis on Saturday.
