Kota kinabalu: National Day and Sabah Day celebrations can serve as a unifying platform for Sabah's multiracial and multireligious population, while fostering patriotism and appreciation for the sacrifices of those who fought for independence, said Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor. He emphasized that racial unity was the key to the state's strength and must continue to be safeguarded, particularly in the face of modern-day challenges.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Hajiji called on the people, especially the younger generation, to nurture patriotism, preserve unity, and uphold harmony amid Sabah's diverse communities and religions. He highlighted that the National Day theme this year, 'Malaysia MADANI: Kesejahteraan Dinikmati', reflects the government's commitment to building a developed, inclusive, and harmonious nation while ensuring the benefits of prosperity are shared fairly by all.

Meanwhile, the Sabah Day theme, 'Sabah Tanah Airku', reflects the people's love, pride, and loyalty towards the state. In his message for the celebrations, Hajiji urged Sabahans to fly the Jalur Gemilang and Sabah flags at their homes, offices, vehicles, and business premises to foster patriotism and love for the country.

He stressed the importance of unity and rejecting elements that seek to undermine the harmony among the people of Sabah. Hajiji expressed hope that these celebrations would serve as a platform to strengthen identity, unity, and harmony for the progress of Sabah.

In addition, Hajiji provided updates on infrastructure developments, stating that the construction of the 20.8km Serusup-Pinturu stretch of the Pan Borneo Highway was progressing smoothly. He mentioned that the 682-metre bridge spanning Sungai Sulaman was expected to be completed by December next year, and the RM465 million Serusup-Pinturu Pan Borneo Highway project was expected to be completed by July 2028.