Kota kinabalu: A total of 300 students from higher learning institutions will perform in the choir during the Sabah State Level Malaysia Day Celebration on Sept 16, as part of efforts to instil appreciation for history and the spirit of independence among the younger generation.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Sabah Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Jafry Ariffin said youth involvement is a key component of this year's celebration, supporting efforts to ensure Malaysia Day is not just an annual event or public holiday. "Malaysia Day is not just an annual celebration or a public holiday, but what is more important is its appreciation, especially among the younger generation," he expressed.

"We aim to instil this awareness in our youth so they understand our history and the true meaning of independence, bringing them along as future leaders of our nation," Jafry added. As the chairman of the main organising committee for the 2026 Sabah State-Level Malaysia Day Celebration, he shared these insights during a press conference held in conjunction with the upcoming event.

Jafry announced that this year's celebration will take place at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC) and will be graced by Yang Dipertua Negeri Sabah Tun Musa Aman and Toh Puan Faridah Tussin. The event is scheduled to begin at 8 pm, with an expected turnout of over 3,000 people.

He also noted that visitors will benefit from free parking at SICC and extended an invitation to all Sabahans to participate actively in the Malaysia Day celebration. The public is encouraged to arrive as early as 6 pm to fully engage in the festivities.

The celebration will showcase various cultural performances and local artists, coordinated by the Sabah Cultural Board, aiming to highlight the rich cultural heritage of the region.