KOTA KINABALU: People from all walks of life thronged Padang Merdeka in the city here to celebrate Malaysia Day after a two-year hiatus following the Covid-19 pandemic.

Vendors also took the opportunity to set up stalls nearby, while flags were put up around the venue, with lights and decorations providing a mini-carnival like vibe to the atmosphere.

The balmy weather made for a smooth celebration.

In his opening remarks at the event, Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor said the state government would continue to push for rights under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) to be reinstated.

He is confident that the good relations and ongoing negotiations with the Federal Government on the MA63, which also include the 40% state revenue owed to Sabah, would bear fruit in the spirit of Malaysia Family.

“Sabah has come so far since the formation of the Federation of Malaysia in 1963, although there is still much to be done in terms of our state development.

“Sabah will continue fighting for its rights under the federal constitution as per the MA63 so that we can also enjoy the developments of this nation like the rest of the country,” Hajiji said.

He added that the Malaysian family spirit can be manifested through the fair and just distribution of wealth and development in Sabah.

Sept 16, 1963, is an important date for all Malaysians as it was the day when Sabah, Sarawak and Peninsular Malaysia came together to form a nation.

“Let us continue to defend and preserve the peace and harmony enjoyed for so long for generations to come,” he said.

Hajiji elaborated on the Malaysian Family spirit, saying the concept was relevant to Sabah and Sarawak as the people have been living together peacefully and happily in a multicultural and multiracial environment.

The Chief Minister expressed gratitude to the forefathers and those who fought for independence and formation of the nation.

The organising chairman of the event, Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin, called on the youths to appreciate the history leading to the formation of the Federation of Malaysia.

He said Malaysians would be able to appreciate the nation’s independence more if they understood its history.

He added that the spirit of Malaysia Day has to be remembered and appreciated by all in Sabah, Sarawak and Peninsular Malaysia as these three make up the country ‑ Malaysia.

“We Malaysians have our roles to make sure that this peace and harmony enjoyed are preserved and protected at all costs,” said Bung Moktar.

He also urged for national integration to be promoted at all levels of government and private administration, so that the country can prosper economically and socially.

Tun Juhar Mahiruddin and his wife Toh Puan Norlidah RM Jasni were also in attendance.

Juhar was greeted with the raising of the Jalur Gemilang and state flag.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2022/09/17/hajiji-continues-call-for-recognition-of-ma63