KINABATANGAN: Sabah UMNO chief, Datuk Seri Panglima Bung Moktar Radin, has lashed out at certain political leaders in the state who are attempting to portray UMNO as a party from Malaya that seizes power in Sabah.
According to him, this issue should not be blown out of proportion, as UMNO has been present in Sabah for 33 years and is led by Sabahans themselves.
“It is unnecessary for individuals to exaggerate this matter and label UMNO as a Malayan party, especially considering that UMNO was together with us and played a significant role as a founding member when it first entered Sabah.
“Such negative sentiments could potentially undermine the concept of the Unity government introduced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim,” he said.
Bung made these remarks during the Iftar event at the Kinabatangan District Mosque on Sunday.
Bung further emphasised that despite the diverse religious practices in Malaysia, the people still value and respect these differences, allowing them to coexist in the same country and continue progressing towards success.
“This is the essence of our unique tradition that should be embraced by every citizen, ensuring its perpetuity. Despite our dissimilarities, we can still share and support one another.
“Tolerance is the key to achieving this, and Ramadan serves as the perfect moment to reignite this spirit,” he remarked.
In line with this, Bung expressed his hope that the people of Malaysia will seize every opportunity to strengthen the spirit of unity through various activities involving individuals of all races.
“Sustained efforts to promote a culture of harmony, unity, and national prosperity are crucial, and Ramadan provides the ideal occasion to ignite unity in driving the country’s success,” he said.
Also present were the UMNO division’s Deputy Chief Datuk Jafray Arifin, UMNO Vice Chief Pg. Aziz Pg. Damsa, Information Chief Rahia Arpah, Women’s Chief Aminah Johan, Youth Chief Mohd Kurniawan Naim Bung, and Puteri UMNO Chief Norfianah Piddin Nani.
