KOTA KINABALU: Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah stated that the integration of the Peninsula, Sabah, and Sarawak has been a crucial force in shaping the Malaysian nation. In light of this, His Majesty called upon all Malaysians to work together in safeguarding this unity and to set aside their differences, while appreciating Malaysia’s history of independence and formation for the benefit of a brighter future.
His Majesty further referred to the Malay proverbs ‘bagaikan aur dengan tebing’ and ‘serumpun laksana serai’ to illustrate how each region complements one another harmoniously.
The statement was made by Al-Sultan Abdullah during a dinner hosted by the Sabah government at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC) on Wednesday (Sept 6) night, where the Raja Permaisuri Agong Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah was also present.
Among the attendees were the Yang Dipertua of Sabah Tun Juhar Mahiruddin, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof, Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor, and Sabah State Assembly Speaker Datuk Seri Kadzim Haji M Yahya.
Al-Sultan Abdullah expressed hope that his visit to Sabah would establish a friendship that strengthens the unity between Sabah, Sarawak, and the Peninsula.
“Regardless of whether we are from Sabah, Sarawak, or the Peninsula, we are all part of an independent nation that proudly flies the Jalur Gemilang flag,” he remarked.
During the Kembara Kenali Borneo tour, Their Majesties had the opportunity to immerse themselves in the cultures of Sabah’s diverse ethnic groups, savor traditional cuisine, listen to local musical instruments, and witness traditional dances.
“I am delighted with the warm hospitality and friendliness of the people I encountered during my journey, who hail from various ethnic and racial backgrounds,” His Majesty shared.
“I was amazed to learn that Sabah is home to 33 indigenous groups who communicate in over 50 languages and 80 ethnic dialects,” he added. – Bernama
Credit: The Star : News Feed
