PENAMPANG: The Sabah Government remains committed to fostering goodwill and enhancing cooperation with its Sarawak counterparts as part of ongoing efforts to promote regional unity and progress, said Deputy Chief Minister II Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam.
Speaking at the Kaamatan Gawai Golf Tournament 2025 event held at Buhavan Square in Donggongon here yesterday Dr Joachim said the State Government recognises the tournament as a vital platform for building mutual understanding and friendship between the people of Sabah and Sarawak – particularly the indigenous Kadazandusun and Dayak communities.
“The Sabah Government will continue to facilitate and foster goodwill and understanding with our Sarawak counterparts,” he said.
“In this connection, this golf tournament serves as an important avenue to express the State Government’s intention and aspiration.”
He emphasised that such events play a pivotal role in not only preserving cultural ties but also in uniting communities across Borneo. “This close understanding and cooperation augurs well for the continued progress and development of the two regions,” he said.
Dr Joachim said Sabah and Sarawak together make up about 60 per cent of Malaysia’s land area, but only around 20 per cent of its population – a factor that presents vast opportunities for further strategic collaboration.
“Not only has this tournament come of age, but it has also fostered closer rapport and friendship between the Kadazandusun Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) and the Dayak Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI),” he added.
Congratulating the winners of this year’s edition of the tournament, he encouraged others not to be disheartened, saying, “In the spirit of unity and friendship, there are no losers here – only winners. The real winner is the strengthening of bonds between our communities.”
He also expressed his gratitude to participants from Sarawak for their strong support and enthusiastic presence, saying their involvement elevated the spirit of the event and contributed to its success.
Dr Joachim urged for the continuation of the Kaamatan-Gawai sporting tradition, which has proven to be more than just a competition, but a celebration of unity in diversity.
“This tournament is not just about golf – it is about nurturing goodwill, reinforcing shared values and building a stronger future together,” he said.
Also present were the KCCI President, Ladislaus Maluda; DCCI President, Dato’ Allan Keripin; Political Secretary to the Minister of Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development, Carl Moosom; Secretary General of Partai Pesara Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB), YB Miro Simuh; Political Secretary to the Premier Sarawak and also a board member of SME Corp under Ministry of Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development, Bell Agan and Organizing Chairman, Edmond Lo.
