KOTA KINABALU: Padang Merdeka was filled with emotions and pride as thousands gathered to celebrate the inaugural Sabah Day, held to honour the state's history and heritage in a meaningful way.

Yang diPertua Negeri Sabah Tun Juhar Mahiruddin led the state's cabinet ministers, including Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor, in an unexpected rendition of "My Way," captivating the audience with the heartfelt performance.

Joining him on stage were Deputy Chief Ministers Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey Kitingan, Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam and Datuk Shahelmey Yahya; Finance Minister Datuk Seri Masidi Manjun; Tourism, Culture, and Environment Minister Datuk Christina Liew; Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship Minister Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe; and State Community Development and People's Wellbeing Minister Datuk James Ratib.

Other dignitaries included Sabah Speaker Datuk Kadzim Yahya and Federal Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Minister Datuk Ewon Benedick.

For the second song, "Sejahtera Malaysia," Juhar invited the thousands of spectators to join in, creating a powerful moment of unity.

As the voices of the crowd rose in harmony, Padang Merdeka became more than just a venue-it transformed into a symbol of shared history and hope for a brighter future for all Sabahans.

Earlier, after Juhar's official declaration of Sabah Day, the public sang the Sabah anthem with great fervor as Royal Navy personnel hoisted the state flag.

https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2024/08/1099519/sabah-day-thousands-join-sabah-tyt-delivering-emotional-rendition