Unity is Sabah’s asset, strength – Musa
BELURAN: The prevailing unity among Sabahans of different race, ethnic and religion is Sabah’s asset and strength, said Chief Minister Tan Sri Musa Aman.
“Other Barisan Nasional (BN) leaders from outside Sabah have often asked me, how come BN in Sabah is so strong? I would answer them that this is our way in Sabah, where we have unity.
“People of different race, ethnic and religion can work together and live in harmony. Together, (BN leaders in Sabah of different races and religions), we build and develop Sabah,” he said when launching the annual fiesta, Pesta Ampalud De Padau in town here, yesterday.
The fiesta is one of the most anticipated events in Beluran, with locals having the opportunity to witness several competitions taking place at sea, including the most popular event, ‘Perahu berdiri’ or ‘upright boat’ in which the boats can be seen moving at speed in an almost upright position on the water. Other competitions include a boat race and boat decoration competition.
The race has its origin reportedly from the ethnic Tidung people who used to race with the boats from Kampung Bukit Besi to Kampung Kelagan here.
It then became a feature in the fiesta that is jointly organised by the Beluran district office and Sabah Tidung Community Culture and Welfare Association (Petisa) annually, in the hope that the tradition would be kept alive and to attract tourists from outside Beluran.
“The State government always welcomes such celebrations to show its respect to all the ethnic races in Sabah. With God’s will, I hope to be able to go to all the celebrations in Sabah personally as these events strengthen the bonds and relationship among the people of different races, and give local leaders the chance to go to the ground to meet the people.
“The leaders would then be able to communicate with the locals and listen to their problems and come up with ideas to help the rakyat,” Musa said, adding that this was the way the BN government works.
He said a lot of developments had been brought to Beluran, including the People’s Housing Project (PPR), a fire and rescue station and electricity and water supply to the more remote areas.
“We are aware that there is still a lot to be done (improve and develop), and we (in BN), being responsible leaders, will try to keep our promises and develop Beluran.
“I am very proud of the leaders here, Datuk Ronald Kiandee (Beluran member of parliament), Datuk Juslie Ajirol (Libaran member of parliament), Datuk Seri Panglima Michael Asang (Labuk assemblyman), Datuk James Ratib (Sugut assemblyman) and other local leaders here who have worked hard to bring development for the benefit of the people.
Meanwhile, Juslie who is Petisa president, said the Tidung people here would continue to support BN, the Chief Minister and the Prime Minister.