MA63's spirit resonates in Keningau

17 September 2025

KENINGAU: The beating of gongs, the colourful display of traditional attire, and the echo of the MA63 spirit enlivened the Batu Sumpah Monument at the Keningau Heritage Museum during the Malaysia Day District-level Celebration 2025.

More than 1,000 people gathered at the historic site, comprising community leaders, representatives of NGOs, and members of the public from across the district.

The event began with the singing of Negaraku, Sabah Tanah Airku, Sabah Maju Jaya, and the nostalgic song Malaysia Berjaya. This was followed by the reading of the Malaysia Day Declaration by the President of the Native Affairs Council of Sabah, Dr Benedict Topin, emphasising unity and the pledge to uphold the nation’s integrity.

Also present was the Deputy Parliamentary Coordinator for Keningau, Dato’ Mohd Ishak Datuk Ayub, who delivered the welcoming address. He was joined by the Keningau District Officer and Organising Chairperson, Peter Jonu Moinjil, as well as elected representatives including Liawan Assemblyman Datuk Annuar Ayub Aman; Sook Assemblyman Datuk Ellron Alfred Angin; Tulid Assemblywoman Datuk Flovia Ng; the Principal of the Sabah Native Customary School (SAANS) DSP GS Sundang Keningau, Rozie Gitang; community leaders and many others.

The highlight of the ceremony was a historic procession led by Sabah’s Deputy Chief Minister I and Member of Parliament for Keningau, Datuk Seri Panglima Dr Jeffrey G. Kitingan, together with the Sabah & Sarawak Indigenous Peoples Coalition (GOASS) and the Dayak Ritual Awareness Fellowship (DRAF). The march began at Hotel Perkasa and proceeded to the Batu Sumpah site, greeted by the resounding rhythm of gongs, the Dusun Kujau dance, and solemn customary rites.

In his speech, Jeffrey stressed that Malaysia Day is more than an annual festivity; it is an occasion to reflect on the foundation of the nation’s formation:

“Malaysia Day is a reminder for us to continue to embrace the spirit of MA6, for the hope and future of a fairer and more prosperous Sabah.”

Above all, the Batu Sumpah in Keningau is not just a stone monument, it is a symbol of promises and agreements. Promises that must be honoured, not betrayed.

This commemoration once again reaffirmed Keningau’s role as a symbol of the people’s struggle, and the Batu Sumpah as an eternal witness to the pledge of unity, justice, and an inclusive Malaysian future.