KOTA KINABALU: Tuan Yang Terutama Tun Datuk Seri Panglima (Dr) Musa Haji Aman has called on Malaysians to strengthen the spirit of unity, reject racial and religious fanaticism, and renew their commitment to solidarity, justice and prosperity in conjunction with the 62nd Malaysia Day celebration.
In his message, Tun Musa stressed that Malaysia, formed on 16 September 1963 through the union of Malaya, Sabah and Sarawak, is a unique federation built upon unity, understanding and a shared vision.
“Malaysia is blessed with rich racial, cultural and religious diversity. This diversity should never be a source of division, but rather a strength that unites us,” he said.
He also highlighted the vital contributions of Sabah and Sarawak to the country’s political stability, socioeconomic growth and cultural richness, while reminding that much remains to be done, particularly in Sabah, to reduce economic disparities and uplift the well-being of its people.
“A stronger Sabah will make for a stronger Malaysia,” he said, while urging that development and opportunities must reach every corner of the state so that no one is left behind.
Tun Musa underscored that there is no place for racial or religious fanaticism in the country’s nation-building efforts. Sabah itself, he added, stands as a model of harmony where people of diverse ethnicities and faiths live together peacefully.
He also reminded leaders and aspiring public representatives not to pursue political gain by creating racial or religious discord, but instead to focus on sound ideas, practical solutions and policies that empower the people and advance the state and nation.
In his message, Tun Musa and Toh Puan extended condolences to the families of victims who perished in the recent floods and landslides in Sabah following continuous rainfall, which also caused damage to homes, businesses and infrastructure.
“In these trying times, I urge affected communities to remain cautious, vigilant and heed the advice of the authorities. Let us extend assistance to those in need so that recovery and rebuilding can take place through our collective spirit of resilience and gotong-royong,” he said.
Concluding his message, Tun Musa called on Malaysians to renew their commitment to solidarity, justice and prosperity. “Together, with mutual respect and shared purpose, we will continue to build a Malaysia that is peaceful, progressive and resilient. Happy Malaysia Day,” he said. – pr/BNN
