KOTA KINABALU: Parti Warisan president Datuk Seri Mohd Shafie Apdal played down political speculation surrounding his presence at the recent Keningau Kaamatan celebrations officiated by Jeffrey Kitingan, president of Sabah STAR.
“Sometimes people make various interpretations but I was there for a cultural event as a mark of respect and appreciation for Sabah’s diversity,” Shafie said.
He added that his attendance was purely based on his friendship with Kitingan and joining the celebrations and festivities of the local community in Keningau.
“I was invited and I informed Kitingan that I would attend.
“He is an old friend, there is no hidden agenda,” he said after attending the Hari Raya Aidiladha gathering in Semporna yesterday.
He added that there was no need for speculation over the presence of political leaders at cultural or community festivities, as such occasions are part of efforts to foster unity, regardless of political affiliations.
“What is wrong with us attending cultural events of other communities? This country was built on diversity of race, culture and religion,” he said.
“During Hari Raya, they visit our homes. When it is Chinese New Year or Kaamatan, we can also attend as a gesture of respect.”
Shafie said the spirit of mutual respect among Malaysia’s multiracial and multi-religious communities must continue to be strengthened for national harmony.
However, he expressed concern over certain parties using social media to spread slander, saying such posts could create unease among the public.
“If there are facts and truth, it is not a problem but most of it is slander that brings no benefit to the people and the country,” he said, calling on the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) to take firm action.
On May 17, Shafie shared the stage with Kitingan for Kaamatan celebrations in Keningau.
This sparked speculation that Warisan, who sits in opposition in the state, might be forging 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’s state election but retained its links to the GRS state government under Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor following the polls.
