KOTA KINABALU: The National Day celebrations, which coincide with the state celebrating Sabah Day for the first time, should be embraced with the spirit of patriotism, says Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.
He said Sabah Day is more meaningful now because it is being celebrated with National Day beginning this year.
He added that Aug 31 is important and rooted in history, not just for remembrance and celebrations, but to be embraced in the spirit of patriotism as well as appreciating the great courage and sacrifices of the country’s freedom fighters.
In this respect, he called upon Malaysians in Sabah to be steadfast in protecting the country’s sovereignty and continue to celebrate National Day and Sabah Day in high spirits and humility, because independence is a priceless gift.
“The things that unite us – peace, harmony, unity in diversity, and our aspirations for progress and development, far outweigh those that divide us.
“Let us keep close in our hearts that the National Day and Sabah Day celebrations belong to us.
“Let us stand firm in support of the government and not be influenced by negativities that threaten to divide us,” he said in his National Day and Sabah Day 2024 message.
