Kota Kinabalu: Datuk Seri Hajiji Haji Noor has called upon Malaysians in Sabah to stay united and resilient in the fight against Covid-19 in his inaugural Christmas and New Year message as Chief Minister.
He said it is heart-warming that people as a nation rallied behind a determined Government and overcame many challenges and pressed ahead with care and urgency.
“Hence, let us unite and continue to fight the Covid-10 spread by taking care of ourselves, our families, our communities and strictly adhering to all safety precautions and standard operating procedures,” he said in his maiden Christmas and New Year message as Chief Minister.
“We have to find the courage to put aside our differences, rise above politics and unite in our efforts to bolster the economy and re-ignite critical sectors which have been severely impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic.”
Hajiji expressed gratitude to the people of Sabah for trusting the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) with a mandate in the recent State Election to form the State Government.
“Our strong coalition is committed to pursuing the path towards development and to create opportunities for economic prosperity to the people,” he said.
As for celebrating Christmas in the midst of Covid-19, he said Malaysians from all faiths have gone through their festive celebrations this year in strides during the pandemic and he believed Christians in Sabah will also celebrate Christmas in a similar spirit.
Hajiji also called upon the people to reflect on the similarities that bind them and to remain focused in strengthening racial harmony and religious understanding towards building the “Sabahan spirit”.
“We shall remain united regardless of our religious beliefs and background by coming together as a united community celebrating diversity and faiths,” he said.
“Let us build on the respect, stability and harmony that our forefathers have laboriously toiled for us and for future generations. This is the path of unity in diversity that we have always walked.”
During this time of festivity, Hajinji said, it is also important that the bravery of all frontliners in fighting to contain the Covid-19 scourge as well as security forces for being vigilant day and night to keep the people and country safe, be remembered.
“We keep them and their families in our prayers. Christmas is also a season of joy and blessings, a time to give, forgive and to strengthen family bonding and community ties,” he said.
“In this season of giving, let us reach out to the underprivileged and the vulnerable as well as all those who need our care and assistance.”
The Chief Minister said in a week's time, another year will begin and although 2020 has been a difficult year due to the pandemic, people should look forward to 2021 with courage and hope.
“Merry Christmas to Christians and fellow Sabahans who are celebrating the occasion and Happy New Year to all,” Hajiji said.
“May these festive seasons bring peace, prosperity, goodwill, happiness and joy to your homes.”
