Sabah Government Committed to Strengthening Ties with Sarawak : Dr Joachim

28 June 2025

PENAMPANG : The Sabah State Government remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering goodwill and enhancing cooperation with its Sarawak counterparts, as part of ongoing efforts to promote regional unity and shared progress, said Deputy Chief Minister II, Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam.

Speaking at the Kaamatan-Gawai Golf Tournament 2025, held at Buhavan Square in Donggongon yesterday, Dr Joachim emphasised the significance of the event as a platform for deepening mutual understanding and friendship, particularly between the Kadazandusun and Dayak communities.

“The Sabah Government will continue to facilitate and encourage closer ties with our Sarawak counterparts,” he said. “In this context, the tournament serves as an important avenue to express the State Government’s goodwill and aspirations.”

He stressed that such events are instrumental not only in preserving cultural links but also in strengthening unity among communities across Borneo.

“This close cooperation and mutual understanding bode well for the ongoing development and progress of both regions,” he added.

Dr Joachim noted that Sabah and Sarawak together constitute approximately 60 per cent of Malaysia’s landmass, yet account for only about 20 per cent of the national population, a dynamic which presents vast potential for strategic collaboration.

“Not only has this tournament matured over the years, but it has also brought about closer rapport and friendship between the Kadazandusun Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) and the Dayak Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI),” he said.

While congratulating the winners of this year’s tournament, he also encouraged those who did not win not to be disheartened.

“In the spirit of unity and friendship, there are no losers here, only winners. The true victory lies in the strengthening of bonds between our communities,” he said.

Dr Joachim expressed his appreciation to participants from Sarawak for their enthusiastic support, stating that their presence had elevated the atmosphere of the event and contributed greatly to its success.

He called for the continuation of the Kaamatan-Gawai sporting tradition, which he described as more than just a competition, but a celebration of unity in diversity.

“This tournament is not just about golf, it’s about nurturing goodwill, reinforcing shared values, and building a stronger future together,” he concluded.

Also present at the event were KCCI President Datuk Ladislaus Maluda, DCCI President Dato’ Allan Keripin, Political Secretary to the Minister of Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development Carl Moosom, PBB Secretary-General YB Miro Simuh, Political Secretary to the Premier of Sarawak and SME Corp board member Bell Agan, and Organising Chairman Edmond Lo.