Kota kinabalu: The Sabah government is set to hold a state-level Christmas celebration starting tomorrow at Padang Merdeka, continuing until December 19. Deputy Chief Minister III Datuk Ewon Benedick, who chairs the event's main committee, announced that for the first time, the Christmas celebration, previously organized by Kota Kinabalu City Hall (DBKK) in collaboration with the Sabah Council of Churches (SCC), has been elevated to a state-level event.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, this event signifies the openness and commitment of the Sabah government, led by Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor, to support the celebration of religious festivals. The celebration will be officially inaugurated by the Yang di-Pertua Negeri of Sabah, Tun Musa Aman, on December 16, with the closing ceremony officiated by the Chief Minister on December 19, 2025.

The theme of this year's celebration, 'Pengharapan Damai Dalam Kasih' (Hope for Peace in Love), underscores the values of unity, harmony, togetherness, and mutual respect among Sabahans of all races and religions, aligning with the Sabah First vision. The event will feature various stage performances and a 'Jamuan Rakyat' (people's feast) involving 100 local entrepreneurs who will provide a variety of dishes, supporting micro and small enterprises.

Ewon extended an invitation to all Sabahans to attend and enrich the celebration. Additional information on the program is available through Ewon's official social media platforms, as well as the channels of the Sabah Ministry of Industry, Entrepreneurship and Transport, DBKK, and the Sabah Information Department.