MALAYSIA DAY 2017 MESSAGE BY SABAH CHIEF MINISTER, YANG AMAT BERHORMAT TAN SRI DATUK SERI PANGLIMA MUSA HAJI AMAN, CHIEF MINISTER OF SABAH

1.          I wish to take this opportunity to extend Malaysia Day greetings to Malaysians from all walks of life. We must take pride in the fact that Malaysia is today 54 years old. In a period of over half a century, we have come far and we have been successful in collectively contributing to our nation’s development and progress. As Malaysians, we are united and we have shown our ability to overcome challenges in order to chart new milestones.

2.         Malaysia is a resilient nation, and one that has not side tracked from its early aspirations to bring progress both to the country and more importantly, to its people. Even from the early days, the government has always placed emphasis on planning and then implementing what it has set out to do. We have continued with the Malaysia Plans, which are updated every five years in order to remain effective and relevant. The government in consultation with its various stakeholders also plans and implements programmes and policies that are suitable for the nation at a particular time. Timely steps have also allowed us to contribute in a highly competitive global economic environment.

3.         Sabah continues to work in close cooperation with the Federal Government to ensure that the aspirations of Malaysians in this state are met. We find ways to create solutions to issues that are raised and we ensure that the true spirit of the formation of Malaysia on 16 September 1963 is carried through into the future. Allow me to take this opportunity to call on Malaysians in Sabah to ignore calls by those who are bent on creating discord through parochial thinking and statements.

4.        We must close ranks and work together as there is so much at risk if we choose the path of disunity. I have faith in Malaysians and our citizens. Reflecting on the recent successful SEA Games held in Kuala Lumpur, it was clear how Malaysians of all backgrounds came in full support of athletes. Our unity shone through for the ASEAN region and the world to see. There was great pride as athletes held their heads high and competed with fellow Malaysians cheering them on. This is the spirit that we must keep strong in our hearts.

5.         In terms of unity, Sabah is a fine example of how the different races and people of various faiths can live together in harmony. Our over 30 ethnic groups are a melting pot that add value to the State and its growth. By focusing on our similarities, and by accepting one another, we are truly what 1 Malaysia is about. There is so much that we learn from one another, and I this is one of the factors for Sabah’s continuous development. It is my hope that we will remain united and refrain from participating in discourses that undermine the harmony that we enjoy today. Let us be respectful to one another.

6.         For us in Sabah, the focus continues to be on agriculture, tourism and manufacturing, as mooted via the Halatuju or Development Agenda over a decade ago. Against this backdrop, we are implementing the Federal-led Sabah Development Corridor and Economic Transformation Programme which focus on these and other relevant economic sectors. In tandem with these development programmes, Sabah is ensuring that we are able to create human resources who are both knowledgeable and skilled in meeting the requirements of both existing and future growth areas. We also wish to create more entrepreneurs including those who are able to tap into the fast paced Internet era that offers endless opportunities to those who are creative and willing to take bold steps.

7.        With better infrastructure and amenities, the focus on poverty eradication and opportunities for tertiary and skills related education, we are starting to close gaps between West Malaysia and Sabah. Such efforts take time, commitment and support of all stakeholders and I am glad to see that things have improved. We are also reducing gaps between regions in Sabah through various initiatives that focus on the strength that each area offers.

8.         Security also remains a focus especially at the Eastern Sabah Security Zone (ESSZONE). With the Eastern Sabah Security Command (ESSCOM) and other relevant assets in place, we are doing our best to keep Sabah safe. I must remind those who are involved with sea based activities such as fisheries and tourism to always remain in close contact with the authorities. Do comply with all regulations and rules that the security agencies have put in place or recommended. Those who hire workers must ensure they are documented.

9.       On this note, let us all work together to collectively build Malaysia as all of us contribute to nation building. Happy Malaysia Day to everyone.



YANG AMAT BERHORMAT
TAN SRI DATUK SERI PANGLIMA MUSA HAJI AMAN,
CHIEF MINISTER OF SABAH