KOTA KINABALU: Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS) celebrated its Chinese New Year 2026 Dinner here Friday in a spirit of goodwill and unity as the festive occasion this year coincides with the month of Ramadan.
PBS Api-Api Information Chief and organising chairperson of the event Yee Tsai Yiew said the convergence of the two major celebrations reflects the uniqueness and harmony of Sabah’s multiracial society.
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“This year is particularly special as Chinese New Year also falls in the month of Ramadan. Earlier, we broke fast together, respecting each other’s traditions and beliefs.
This shows that in Sabah, unity is not merely words, but a daily practice,” she said at the event held at Hakka Hall here.
Yee said that as a local party, PBS has always believed that Sabah’s strength lies in the unity of its people despite differences in views and backgrounds.
“As a local party, PBS believes that Sabah’s strength lies in the unity of its people. Although we may differ in opinions and backgrounds, we remain united to ensure Sabah continues to progress,” she said.
Commenting on the Year of the Horse in 2026, Yee said that in Chinese culture, the horse symbolises energy, courage, progress and success.
“This year, we enter the Year of the Horse. In Chinese culture, the horse symbolizes energy, courage, progress, and success. These values are very relevant for Sabah,” she said.
She added that just as Chinese New Year brings hope and renewal, Ramadan teaches the values of patience, discipline and harmony.
“The combination of the Horse’s spirit of advancement and the virtues of Ramadan inspires us to remain united, face challenges with resilience, and work together to build a brighter future for Sabah,” she said.
Yee also linked the spirit of unity to the legendary story of Nian, which is synonymous with Chinese New Year celebrations. “Just like the story of Nian, it is only in the spirit of unity and togetherness that we can face challenges and achieve success together. As told in the story of Nian, only through unity and working hand in hand can we overcome challenges and usher in success,” she said.
She also called on the community to remain united as they move forward in the Year of the Horse.
“In this Year of the Horse, let us unite as one, flourish, remain as steadfast as Mount Tai, achieve swift success, and together welcome a more glorious future for Sabah. Together, let us stay united, flourish, remain steadfast, and achieve success!” she said.
Present were Acting PBS President Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam, Deputy Presidents Datuk Seri Dr Yee Moh Chai and Datuk Jahid Jahim, Secretary-General Datuk Julita Mojungki, Information Chief Datuk Joniston Bangkuai, other party leaders and members as well as representatives of the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) components and community leaders.
