By WU VUIDE
KOTA KINABALU: The Doa Sayangi Malaysia programme reflects Sabah’s spirit of harmony where freedom of religion is not just a slogan but a reality, said Assistant Finance Minister II Tan Lee Fatt.
Tan described it as a symbol of unity that goes beyond legal guarantees.
“Freedom of religion is enshrined in the Federal Constitution under Article 11 and in the Sabah Constitution under Article 5(e). These are not just words on paper but promises we uphold together,” he said during the launch of the programme at Sri Pasupathinath Temple in Bukit Padang.
Tan said the programme carried three objectives — to provide space for non-Muslim communities in Sabah to pray for national peace in conjunction with National Day, Sabah Day or Malaysia Day; to unite the people through religious freedom which forms the foundation of harmony; and to build trust that the Sabah Government will always safeguard religious rights and tolerance.
He stressed that mutual respect is the essence of unity.
“By respecting one another, we are building a bridge of trust, understanding and love. This bridge will ensure that we remain strong no matter the challenges,” he said.
Tan added that the programme not only strengthens togetherness but also deepens the people’s attachment to their homeland.
“May the prayers we offer today be a source of strength for Malaysia to remain peaceful, prosperous and united,” he said.
Malaysia Hindu Sangam Sabah State Council Chairman Datuk Dr G Mohan Gopal Naidoo said August carries special meaning as Malaysians celebrate National Day while praying for the nation’s well-being.
“By the grace of Almighty God, we have once again been given the opportunity to celebrate the Doa Sayangi Malaysia programme in an atmosphere of peace and harmony,” he said at the state-level celebration for the non-Muslim category.
Dr Mohan said the programme allows Sabah’s multiracial and multireligious society to better understand and appreciate different faiths.
“This event strengthens unity and love for our country, and reinforces the bonds of friendship among us. Unity is the main factor that will continue to bring progress, development and prosperity to Malaysia,” he said.
In line with this year’s National Day theme, “Malaysia Madani: Rakyat Disantuni”, he urged the public to seek commonalities and accept differences to further enhance tolerance and unity.
