KOTA KINABALU: The three-day Sabah Christmas Celebrations 2025 kicked off at Padang Merdeka here with Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor describing it as a platform for the spirit of goodwill, mutual respect and togetherness.
He said it was not merely a religious celebration, but the state-level Christmas celebration reflects social maturity and the beauty of harmony among the people of Sabah, proving that religious, cultural, and background diversity is not a divider but a strength that unites the people as one big family.
According to him, this year’s theme, “Hope for Peace in Love”, is most fitting as it calls on all citizens to return to the fundamental values of humanity, such as peace, love, hope, and shared responsibility.
He said that hope is the belief that through love, a more peaceful, prosperous, and meaningful life can be built, while true peace is manifested through mutual respect and strengthened by acts of kindness.
“Love is the foundation of all forms of relationships, whether within the family, community, society, or our relationship with the environment. This is the philosophy we wish to cultivate throughout the Sabah Christmas Celebration 2025,” he said when launching the celebration, which was launched by Yang DiPertua Negeri Tun Musa Aman.
Hajiji, whose speech was delivered by Deputy Chief Minister I, Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam on Tuesday evening (Dec 16), said the event serves as a platform to strengthen social unity and the well-being of the people.
“I am very pleased that various programs and activities have been organised throughout this celebration, with emphasis on family, community, and social aspects that complement each other in shaping a balanced and resilient society.
“This celebration reminds us that family is the place where love and hope begin. Within the community, the spirit of consensus and cooperation is the key to harmonious social living,” he said.
A variety of events will be spread over till Dec 18.
