PENAMPANG: Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor has called on Sabahans to continue strengthening unity and togetherness as key pillars for the State’s progress and sustainable development under the Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) 2.0 Roadmap.
He said the State Government remains committed to accelerating development efforts to ensure continued economic growth and improve the wellbeing of the people.
According to Hajiji, various initiatives are being implemented, including efforts to strengthen the economy, create employment opportunities, increase agricultural productivity, develop human capital, improve living standards in both rural and urban areas, and promote tourism through culture.
“In achieving these goals, the government certainly requires the support and unity of all segments of society in the State to continue working together in developing Sabah,” he said at the closing ceremony of the State-level Kaamatan Festival 2026 at Hongkod Koisaan, KDCA, on Sunday.
Hajiji said this year’s theme, “Kaamatan: Harvesting Unity, Celebrating Harmony”, was particularly relevant amid current challenges, including economic uncertainties and rising living costs.
He urged Sabahans to remain united and work together in overcoming challenges while preserving the harmony that has long been the foundation of the State’s strength.
Describing Kaamatan as more than a cultural celebration, he said the festival serves as an important platform to preserve ethnic traditions, foster tolerance, strengthen political stability and support the State’s development agenda.
“The Kaamatan Festival also reminds us that every successful harvest requires hard work, dedication and effective cooperation. Sabah’s prosperous future will not be built on rhetoric alone, but through hard work, unity, harmony and sincerity among all levels of society,” he said.
Hajiji also expressed appreciation for the strong turnout from various ethnic communities, cultural associations and visitors, describing it as a reflection of Sabah’s enduring unity and harmony.
The closing ceremony was officiated by Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Musa Aman and attended by Deputy Chief Minister I Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam, Huguan Siou Tan Sri Joseph Pairin Kitingan, KDCA president Datuk Seri Safar Untong and other dignitaries.
