KOTA KINABALU: Parti Warisan president Datuk Seri Mohd Shafie Apdal has played down political undertones regarding his presence at the recent Keningau Kaamatan celebrations, which were officiated by Sabah STAR president Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey Kitingan.
"Sometimes people make various interpretations. but I was there for a cultural event as a mark of respect and appreciation for Sabah's diversity," he said.
Shafie said his attendance was purely based on his friendship with Kitingan and to join the Kaamatan celebrations and festivities with the local community.
"I was invited and I informed Kitingan that I would attend. He is an old friend – there is no hidden agenda," he told reporters after attending the Hari Raya Aidiladha gathering in Semporna on Wednesday (May 27).
Shafie said there was no need for anyone to speculate about the presence of political leaders at cultural or community festivities, as such occasions are part of efforts to foster unity.
"What is wrong with us attending cultural events of other communities? This country was built on diversity of race, culture and religion," he said.
Shafie said the spirit of mutual respect among Malaysia's multiracial and multi-religious communities must continue to be strengthened for national harmony.
Earlier, this month Shafie shared the stage with Kitingan to symbolically cut padi stalks to mark Kaamatan celebrations in Keningau, sparking speculation that Warisan, who sits in opposition in the state, might forge an electoral understanding or pact with Sabah STAR.
Sabah STAR quit the state's ruling Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) coalition prior to the Nov 29, 2025 Sabah polls but retained its links to the GRS state government under Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor after the elections.
