TUARAN: Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Hajiji Haji Noor has urged Sabah’s younger Muslim generation to make the spirit of Hijrah a way of life by continuously improving their knowledge, skills, character and sense of identity to become a capable generation that can contribute to the progress of the State and nation.
He said young people are important assets who will determine the future of society, the State and the country, and should therefore use advances in digital technology wisely for education, skills development, entrepreneurship, knowledge-sharing and improving their standard of living.
At the same time, Hajiji said youths must avoid the misuse of technology, the spread of fake news, cyberbullying and social problems that could jeopardise their future.
They must also be resilient, courageous in facing challenges and constantly strive to improve themselves.
“With knowledge, good character and a strong spirit of Hijrah, the younger generation can become capable, principled and responsible leaders,” he said at the Tuaran district- level Maal Hijrah 1448H/2026 celebration at Dewan Sri Sulaman here today.
His speech was delivered by Nominated Assemblyman Datuk Abdul Kassim Haji Razali.
Hajiji said the Maal Hijrah celebration should not be regarded merely as an annual event, but as an important platform to appreciate the lessons from the migration of Prophet Muhammad SAW, which led to the formation of a united, progressive, disciplined and morally upright society.
He said the spirit of Hijrah should serve as a foundation for intensifying efforts, strengthening unity and building a more progressive society through positive changes in attitudes, thinking, practices and actions.
He said the values demonstrated through the Hijrah, such as careful planning, sacrifice, patience, courage and faith in Allah SWT, should continue to be appreciated and practised in daily life.
At the same time, negative attitudes such as laziness, indiscipline, selfishness,dishonesty, and a tendency to give up easily must be abandoned.
Hajiji said that to make tomorrow better than today, every individual must have clear goals and work diligently to achieve them.
He said the pursuit of knowledge, reading, respecting parents, helping the community and drawing closer to Allah SWT should also become part of everyday life.
Hajiji also called on the Muslim community to make this year’s Maal Hijrah celebration a starting point for renewing their resolve and determination to move from weakness to strength, from division to unity, from ignorance to knowledge, and from indifference to responsibility.
He expressed hope that the celebration would mark the beginning of efforts to develop a prosperous, inclusive and morally upright ummah founded on Islamic values.
He also urged the people of Tuaran to continue strengthening cooperation, preserving harmony, and supporting the government’s development initiatives.
The Chief Minister further called on Sabahans to remain united, prioritise stability and reject any divisive elements that could undermine the State’s unity and harmony.-pr/BNN
