Christmas symbolises love, strengthens unity in a multi-ethnic society : Yazid

23 December 2025

KENINGAU: The celebration of Christmas not only holds deep religious significance for Christians, but also serves as an important symbol of love, tolerance and unity among the multi-ethnic and multi-religious communities in Sabah.

Chairman of the Bingkor Community Welfare Association, Yazid Mohd Hasnan Tawik @ Charles said that the diversity of celebrations shared together in the state reflects the uniqueness and strength of the unity of the people of Sabah, which forms the foundation of social stability and harmonious communal living.

According to him, the noble values embodied in the celebration of Christmas should be used as an example and a basis to continue fostering mutual respect and strengthening bonds of fellowship among the people, regardless of differences in religious and cultural backgrounds.

“Celebrations such as Christmas should be utilised as a medium to strengthen relationships between communities, while at the same time instilling a spirit of togetherness for shared wellbeing and harmony,” he said in a statement issued in conjunction with the Christmas celebration here.

Yazid also conveyed his Christmas greetings to all Christians, particularly in the Keningau district and generally throughout Sabah.

He said that the long-standing practice of mutual understanding and respect, which has been the cornerstone of community life in the state, must continue to be reinforced so that the harmony enjoyed can be preserved and passed on to future generations.

Meanwhile, he expressed hope that this year’s Christmas celebration would bring peace, joy and a ray of hope to all people, while further strengthening the spirit of unity in efforts to build a prosperous, inclusive and resilient society.

He added that the Bingkor Community Welfare Association will remain committed to playing its role as a platform for community welfare and unity, in line with the aspiration to build a harmonious and mutually supportive community in the district.