CM: Stay united after quake
KOTA KINABALU: Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Musa Aman has called on the people to remain united in dealing with the killer 5.9 magnitude quake, which claimed 18 lives at Mount Kinabalu last Friday.
Musa in his speech for the JCI Asia Pacific Conference opening at Likas Sports Complex here last night, said the tragedy was a difficult test not just for the State but all Malaysians and family members of other victims four other countries.
“I trust that delegates present here have gained from this experience and will take home good memories. I do hope that despite the recent earthquake, you will visit us again here in Sabah.
“This is a sad time for us, having not only lost fellow Malaysians, but also nationals from other countries, including students from Singapore. At a time like this, we must all stand in solidarity,” he said.
The text of his speech was delivered by Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Tawfiq Abu Bakar Titingan, who represented him to officiate at the event.
Meanwhile, Musa said the State Government placed great emphasis on youth development and had consistently supported and helped boost the effectiveness of youth related activities.
One example of such activities was the JCI APC, which the State fully supported through the Ministry of Youth and Sports and Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment.
“We are promoting Sabah as a destination for meetings, incentive, conference and events or M.I.C.E. In short, I am glad to see conferences of this scale happening here in Sabah,” said Musa in his speech.
He also commended JCI for having played a vital role worldwide with its focus on developing and inspiring the young people to be active citizens with the purpose of creating a positive change.
Despite coming from many different nationalities, speaking different languages, and practising different cultures and traditions, he said JCI had shown that the brotherhood of man transcends the sovereignty of nations, as reflected in their presence in the conference.
“I also see a positive gender balance which reflects equal opportunities for young men and women, a cause I strongly support. I have attended JCI functions and a commonly heard the tenet of the JCI creed which reads "Service to Humanity is the Best Work of Life".
“Instilling this in young minds is one of the good values of JCI. In addition, an event of this magnitude beyond doubt brings out the best in our young people and showcases their talents, including in leadership,” he said.
Musa also congratulated the organising committee, hosting local organisation JCI Penampang and Board of Directors of JCI Malaysia for making the event a success.