Kota kinabalu: Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor stated that every individual has a responsibility to ensure that shared spaces, whether in schools, workplaces, business premises, houses of worship, or even the digital sphere, are used to strengthen mutual understanding rather than sow division. He emphasised the importance of cultivating a sense of responsibility among Sabahans to preserve the harmony enjoyed at present, which he described as the most valuable legacy for future generations.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Hajiji highlighted that Sabah's strength lies in its unity amid ethnic and religious diversity, which should be a source of pride and must be safeguarded for continued strength and prosperity. He conveyed these sentiments during the launch of the National Month, Sabah Day, and Fly the Jalur Gemilang campaign 2025, attended by state Cabinet ministers, federal and state department heads, and representatives from relevant agencies.
Hajiji noted that the launch was more than symbolic; it was a call for the people to embrace the true meaning of independence, which is not only freedom from colonial rule but also liberation from poverty and division. He remarked that the National Day and Sabah Day celebrations held every August serve as a historic reminder of the sacrifices made by the nation's forebears in defending the homeland and preserving the dignity of the people.
Discussing Sabah's development progress, Hajiji reported that the Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) Development Plan 1.0 had achieved encouraging results, with an average implementation rate of 94 percent across 467 planned initiatives as of May this year. He identified agriculture, industry, and tourism as priority sectors, along with efforts to strengthen human capital, public well-being, infrastructure networks, and environmental sustainability.
He mentioned that various forms of public assistance have been provided, including improved access to education and the introduction of the Sabah People's Protection Insurance Scheme, which offers comprehensive benefits to Sabahans. Additionally, Hajiji launched the Sabah-level Kembara Merdeka Jalur Gemilang convoy, which will cover 2,500 kilometres over 20 days across 27 districts, involving 20 agencies and 60 participants.