KOTA KINABALU: Sabah will continue to pursue its rights and interests under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) through constitutional channels and close cooperation with the federal government, says Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.
He said strong federal-state relations must be based on mutual respect, fairness and a willingness to fulfil agreed responsibilities.
“We believe that strong federal relations are built on mutual respect, fairness and a willingness to fulfil agreed responsibilities,” he said in his speech at the Sabah-level Malaysia Day celebration at the Sabah International Convention Centre here on Wednesday (Sept 16).
His speech was read by Deputy Chief Minister I Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam as Hajiji attended the national-level Malaysia Day celebration in Kuching.
Hajiji said Malaysia Day was an opportunity to reflect on Sabah’s position in the Federation, particularly in relation to MA63 and the Federal Constitution.
“Fighting for Sabah’s rights does not mean distancing Sabah from Malaysia.
“On the contrary, it is part of efforts to strengthen the foundations of the Federation so that every partner feels respected, every responsibility is fulfilled and every citizen benefits from a stable and prosperous Malaysia,” he said.
Hajiji said Sept 16 remained significant 63 years after the formation of Malaysia, which was founded on agreement, diversity and a determination to move forward together as one sovereign Federation.
He urged Malaysians to preserve the culture of consensus and not allow differences of opinion to become divisive.
“In the era of social media, we must also be wiser in assessing information, rejecting slander and divisive sentiments, and using technology to bring communities closer together and open up new opportunities,” he said.
In his speech at the national-level celebration at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching, Hajiji also called on Malaysians to safeguard peace and ensure that the country’s progress and prosperity continued to be shared by all.
He said Sabah would continue to prioritise unity and mutual respect among its diverse communities.
“Differences in traditions and cultures do not prevent the people of the state from continuing to live in peace and harmony.
“It is this diversity that is Malaysia’s strength and unites us as one family. Let us continue to nurture the spirit of consensus, mutual respect and cooperation for a peaceful, stable and prosperous Malaysia,” he said.
Hajiji expressed hope that Malaysia, particularly Sabah, would continue to enjoy peace and prosperity while achieving greater progress.
“Let us celebrate Malaysia Day with a strong spirit of patriotism so that harmony among people of various races and religions will continue to be preserved,” he said.
