Decision to observe Sabah Day a reflection of autonomy, says historical facts

KOTA KINABALU: The end of Britain's colonial rule in Sabah on Aug 31, 1963, has never been celebrated by the state over the last 60 years.

The historic day for Sabahans was always overshadowed by the National Day celebrations with little or no memory that Aug 31 was a significant date where Sabah - then known as North Borneo - was given self rule ahead of the formation of Malaysia.