KOTA BELUD: Former Chief Minister Datuk Seri Dr Salleh Said Keruak has called for Sabahans to embrace the Malaysian Family concept as a method in preserving unity.
He said the concept which prioritised the noble family values such as tolerance, empathy, love and sacrifice has been well-received by the people of various races in the state.
The Malaysian Family concept, espoused by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob, transcends race and religion and has three main characteristics, namely inclusivity, common ground and contentment.
Salleh said the Malaysian Family concept is in line with the concept of “Rahmatan Lil Alamin” propagated by the Prophet SAW.
‘In this regard, the various races of the people of Kota Belud that live in harmony should be an example for us to embrace the Malaysian family values.
“This is because even though they belong to different races and religions, the culture and attitude of cooperation and helping fellow races has been a practice for a long time,” he said.
Salleh, who is also Usukan state assemblyman, said this in his speech at the Kota Belud district level Maal Hijrah Celebration, here today.
Salleh said this year’s Maal Hijrah celebration, with the theme of ‘Malaysian Family as the Catalyst of Prosperity’, reminds Muslims about the Prophet’s migration from Mecca to Medina.
“Starting from the migration event, Muslims should take advice that a strong Islamic brotherhood is the basis for unity to achieve national prosperity,” he said.
Later, Salleh presented Tokoh Maal Hijrah award to Senan Jipar, Tokoh Khalid Al Walid (Azuan Bin Marjan @ Norjan. Tokoh Fatimah Az Zahra (Rosnani Omar) and Tokoh Abdul Rahman Auf (Rohani @ Juani Japrin).
