KOTA KINABALU: Sabah Governor Tun Musa Aman expressed his condolences to the families of those who died in landslides.
"Toh Puan and I wish to express our deepest sympathies to the families of those who perished during this natural disaster that resulted from continuous rainfall affecting many parts of Sabah.
"The prevailing severe flooding has also caused damage to homes, businesses, and infrastructure," the Yang DiPertua Negeri said in his Malaysia Day message.
He called on all affected communities to remain cautious, stay alert, and heed the advice and warnings issued by the authorities.
"Let us also extend assistance to those in need, so that recovery and rebuilding can be made possible through our shared spirit of resilience and unity. This is the spirit behind ‘gotong royong,’ Musa said.
As of 8pm, a total of 12 people have been killed in landslides in Penampang, Kota Kinabalu and Papar since Thursday (Sept 14), with another victim missing at a landslip in Papar.
In his message, he said Malaysia marks its 62nd year of the formation of a nation with Malaya, Sabah, and Sarawak coming together on Sept 16, 1963, to form this unique federation.
"Malaysia is blessed with rich racial, cultural, and religious diversity. This diversity must never be a source of division but rather a strength that unites us.
"Our unity is the foundation that has allowed Malaysia to remain politically stable and to continue progressing as a nation," he said
In this regard, he said the roles of Sabah and Sarawak in the formation and development of Malaysia were significant as both states have contributed greatly to the nation’s political stability, socio-economic growth, and cultural richness.
"At the same time, we must acknowledge that much more remains to be done, particularly in Sabah, to reduce economic disparities and uplift the welfare of our people.
"Efforts must continue to ensure that development and opportunities reach all corners of the state so that no one is left behind. A stronger Sabah means a stronger Malaysia.
"There is no room for racial or religious bigotry in our country if we are to progress together as one," he added.
Musa said Sabah stands as a model of tolerance and harmony, where people of many ethnicities and religions live side by side in peace.
He said the tradition of respect and acceptance must be safeguarded and strengthened for the sake of future generations, Musa said.
"As we look ahead, I urge all Malaysians, especially those in positions of leadership or aspiring to public office, to rise above narrow interests.
"Political mileage must never be pursued at the expense of sowing racial or religious discord in an otherwise harmonious society," he said.
