KOTA KINABALU: Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Musa Aman said there is no place for racial bigotry and religious discord in Sabah.
He said Sabah is truly a model for unity and called on the people to have mutual respect for each other to ensure that the prevailing harmony in the state will remain intact.
“Despite best efforts to maintain unity, we still face issues that are related to the different faiths and races in this country. It is my hope that we do not allow ourselves to be drawn into actions that could incite tension,” said Musa yesterday.
“Visiting one another during festivities is a way of life for Malaysians, and I am happy to note that we continue to uphold this tradition that allows us to better understand and accept one another. While we continue to practise our respective cultures and traditions, we are able to work together in the interest of the nation,” he added in his message in conjunction with this year’s Chinese New Year celebration.
Sabah, said Musa, is moving forward in terms of progress, and the only way the people can achieve more is by working together.
“We must set aside differences, and cooperate with all quarters if we want to see a better Sabah for our children and their children.
“The Economic Transformation Programme (ETP) is progressing well, with focus on the oil and gas, tourism and palm oil sectors for Sabah. In tandem with this is the Sabah Development Corridor (SDC), which is well on its way to achieve its objectives. The Sabah Development Agenda or Halatuju introduced over a decade ago has also brought progress to the state via the focus on tourism, agriculture and manufacturing,” he said.
Musa assured that the state government is always open to listening to issues raised by the business and trade communities in Sabah, and to work with them in finding solutions, some of which require consultations with the federal government.
While stating that the government is aware of the rising cost of daily items and is monitoring the situation, he warned traders and those involved in the goods supply chain to refrain from raising costs indiscriminately.
“Do not take advantage of the cut in fuel subsidies and sugar to raise prices of goods and services, unless it is absolutely necessary. Consumers on their part should report to the relevant authorities traders, shops or restaurants that do not display the correct price tags, or raise prices excessively. We need the support of all quarters in monitoring the situation,” he stressed.
The Chief Minister also repeated his assurance to the Chinese community in Sabah of the state government’s continuous support towards the growth of Chinese schools, temples and cultural activities.
“The Sabah state government will continue to disburse financial aid for Chinese schools and temples, the way we have done for many years now.
“We also support Chinese non-governmental organisations that work towards advancing education and welfare activities. We recognise that education is very important to the Chinese community and we will continue to assist where possible.”
Musa said the government also understood that security is of paramount importance in attracting investors and driving the economy, especially one that depends very much on tourism.
He noted that the unfortunate intrusion in Lahad Datu almost a year ago is now a matter of the past with the setting up of the Eastern Sabah Security Command (Esscom).
“Let me assure you that security has and will continue to be beefed up to avoid any untoward incidents on our soil. I also wish to thank security forces on duty during festive seasons, sacrificing family time to maintain peace and order.
“During this festive season, let us remember the less fortunate. I commend groups that share festive cheer by visiting those in need, and I hope that you will continue to do so in future,” he concluded.