Sabah: Their numbers may be small, but Sabah's Indian community stands as a powerful testament to resilience and the ability to thrive within a harmonious, multicultural society, which is the very cornerstone of the state's identity.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the presence of this community in the 'Land Below the Wind' goes beyond strengthening unity; it adds a vibrant new thread to the rich tapestry of Sabah's culture, which is home to over 30 ethnicities and hundreds of sub-groups, such as the Kadazan, Dusun, Murut, Rungus and Bajau.
For Indians who have called Sabah home for three decades, the state is far more than just a place to earn a living or build a career. It is a true "home" that has welcomed them with open arms, allowing the community to integrate seamlessly, adapt to local customs and forge deep and lasting friendships.
Malaysia Hindu Sangam Sabah chairman, Datuk Dr G Mohan, highlighted that many from the community have built lives and families with locals, beautifully weaving together two distinct traditions and cultures for their children. He noted, "Sabah is truly unique. Its people are incredibly friendly, hospitable and possess a profound level of tolerance. I see the 'Truly Asia' concept alive and well here. This state is the finest model of racial harmony and unity we have."
Recalling his arrival in Sabah in 1990 as a medical officer, Dr Mohan, originally from Johor, expressed how he was welcomed warmly, exceeding his expectations. Though initially hesitant, he found himself staying for nearly three decades, having served in various hospitals and eventually retiring in 2023.
His journey in Sabah began at the Duchess of Kent Hospital in Sandakan, where he met his future wife, Vina, a Dusun nurse. Their marriage in 2004 and the birth of their three children further cemented his ties to the region. As president of Persatuan Peranakan Masyarakat India Sabah, Dr Mohan aims to expand its membership significantly in the coming years.
Retired teacher Grace Subramaniam, a Perak native, shares a similar affection for Sabah, having been posted to Keningau 29 years ago. The local community's warmth and generosity left a lasting impression on her and her family, who have grown to love the state deeply.
Similarly, R Shanmuga Nathan, a former lecturer from Perak, initially planned a temporary stay in Sabah but was drawn to its community spirit. This sense of belonging led him to make Sabah his permanent home, where his children were born and raised.
Entrepreneur S Thiagarajan also found his place in Sabah through a serendipitous meeting with a Kadazan woman, who became his wife. Their life together and the blending of cultures have enriched his experience in the state, making it a true home for him and his family.