Christmas Celebration A Platform For Unity, Harmony Among Sabahans - Hajiji

KOTA KINABALU, Dec 16 (Bernama) -- The Sabah 2025 Christmas celebration is not merely a religious occasion, but serves as an important platform to unite the people of Sabah in the spirit of goodwill, mutual respect and togetherness.

Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor said the state-level Christmas celebration reflects social maturity and the beauty of harmony among Sabahans, proving that diversity in religion, culture and background is not a dividing factor, but rather a strength that unites the people as one big family.

“The theme of this year’s celebration, ‘Hope for Peace in Love’, is very appropriate as it invites everyone to return to fundamental human values such as peace, love, hope and shared responsibility.

“Love is the foundation of all relationships, whether within families, communities, society, as well as in our relationship with the environment. This is the philosophy we seek to instil throughout the celebration,” he said at the opening ceremony of the Sabah Christmas Celebration 2025 at Padang Merdeka here tonight.

Hajiji’s speech was read out by Deputy Chief Minister I and Sabah Minister of Public Works and Utilities, Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam, while the opening ceremony was officiated by the Yang di-Pertua Negeri of Sabah, Tun Musa Aman.

Hajiji also said that, in line with the aspirations of the Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) roadmap, the celebration also serves as a platform to strengthen social unity and the people’s well-being.

He said the development envisioned by the state government is not measured solely by physical and economic progress, but also by the harmony of human relationships, the strength of family institutions, social compassion and a sense of responsibility towards God’s creation.

“I am very pleased that various programmes and activities have been organised throughout the celebration, with emphasis on family, community and social aspects that complement one another in shaping a balanced and resilient society.

“This celebration reminds us that family is where love and hope begin. Within the community, the spirit of consensus and cooperation is key to harmonious communal living,” he said.

Hajiji believes such celebrations can serve as a bridge connecting Sabah’s multiracial and multi-religious society, while showcasing the true face of the state, rich in diversity yet united by shared human values.

“On behalf of the state leadership, I wish all Sabahans who are celebrating a Merry Christmas,” he said.

-- BERNAMA