Chinese are state govt’s partners in progress – Musa

KOTA KINABALU: The Sabah state government is one that cares for all and it has, over the years, continued with its support to the Chinese community, said Chief Minister Tan Sri Musa Aman.

Its support includes annual allocations for places of worship and Chinese medium schools, he said at the opening of the 2018 Dragon, Unicorn and Lion dance festival here yesterday.

In his speech, Musa pointed out that the Chinese community was the state government’s partner in progress.

“The role you play in driving trade and entrepreneurship has also helped Sabah build its economy. I wish to call on the Chinese community in Sabah to continue supporting the government’s aspirations and development programmes which are all meant to drive us towards benefiting from a high-income nation.

“The political stability that we enjoy today must be maintained for us to bring even more progress to the state and to ensure that programmes that are on-going and planned can proceed without delay,” he stressed.

Musa also said the successful organising of a great cultural celebration was testimony of collaboration between the Chinese community and the Sabah state government in promoting Chinese culture.

“The Sabah state government encourages the organising of cultural events such as this one and looks forward to the continuation of this traditional event in coming years,” he said adding: “I am happy to see people from all walks of life here today to support this festival, and I hope you enjoy what has been planned for this afternoon.

“We live in a multiracial nation that is rich in the diversity of cultures. This festival has roots in long traditions and culture of the Chinese community and has played an indispensable role in bringing together the various ethnic groups in Sabah. Here in Sabah, we value the different races and we appreciate that each brings strength to our state,” he said.

“Drawing on the values of acceptance, respect and appreciation, we have built Sabah and these positive attributes will bring our state to greater heights in future as we continue to roll out socioeconomic programmes for the benefit of the people, regardless of their background,” he added.

Musa also announced an allocation of RM50,000 for the event and RM150,000 for the dragon and lion heads.

Chief Minister Tan Sri Musa Haji Aman together with other dignitaries banging on the drums to mark the opening of the Lion, Unicorn and Dragon Dance Festival held at the Likas Sports Complex Multi Purpose hall on Saturday. Also seen here are Special...