Sabah Chief Minister Tan Sri Musa advised all Sabahans to uphold the peace and harmony among the people of various races and religions in the state.
“We do not want anyone fishing in troubled waters, trying to politicise religion. There is no religious issue in our beloved state, but only mutual understanding and harmony among the people of various races and religions,” he said.
Musa said apart from Sabah’s natural beauty, its harmonious lifestyle was also among the major reasons for tourists to come to the state.
In conjunction with Maulidur Rasul, he reminded Muslims to appreciate and emulate Prophet Muhammad by strengthening the bond of fellowship with all of God’s creatures.
He said the key to Sabah’s success did not rest solely on its natural resources, but cooperation and support among the people was equally important to ensure continuous development, peace, harmony and security.
Earlier, Musa had walked in the rain for about 1.8km with 10,000 participants from 83 contingents, comprising government departments, private institutions and schools under the Tawau Municipal Council towards Padang Bandaran in conjunction with the Sabah-level Maulidur Rasul celebration.
Also present were Sabah Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Seri Yahya Hussin, State Assembly Speaker Datuk Seri Syed Abas Syed Ali as well as Sabah Cabinet ministers, assemblymen, and heads of federal and state departments.
Earlier, two Sabah police officers were named among the recipients of the Maulidur Rasul award in conjunction with Prophet Muhammad’s birthday celebration.
They are former Sabah police deputy commissioner Datuk Awang Sahari EM Nadzeer and Kudat district police chief, Supt Douglas Nyeging Taong.