Uniting Leaders and Community in Kadamaian Celebration

5 January 2025

KOTA BELUD: About 5,000 people attended the Christmas and New Year Open House celebration organised by the Ministry of Industry, Entrepreneurship and Transportation of Sabah and the Kadamaian State Assemblyman, at Kadamaian Square Hall, here, today.

Deputy Chief Minister III and Sabah Minister of Industry, Entrepreneurship and Transport, Datuk Ewon Benedick, said that such events serve as important platforms to engage with Sabahans, especially to appreciate the ongoing support from the people of Kadamaian who provided a significant mandate in the last election.

“As the Kadamaian State Assemblyman, Sabah’s Minister of Industry, Entrepreneurship and Transportation, and as a state leader, I celebrate Sabahans, particularly in Kadamaian, at this event, which I have organised since I was elected as the Kadamaian representative.

“Events like this offer opportunities for direct interaction, strengthening bonds, fostering harmony, and promoting unity. These are the fundamental pillars needed to develop Sabah,” he said.

He made these remarks after officiating the Kadamaian Christmas and New Year Thanksgiving Open House at Kadamaian Square Hall, here, today.

Ewon stated that such open house gatherings draw thousands of people from diverse backgrounds, including representatives of various political parties, government departments, business associations, and church leaders, reflecting a spirit of unity and togetherness among the community.

He also expressed gratitude to all Kadamaian residents for attending and enlivening the celebration despite the rain.

“Although it rained heavily at the start of the event, it did not deter thousands from attending.

“This sends a clear message that the people expect consistent leadership to develop Kadamaian and continue welfare programmes for the community,” he said.

Ewon also welcomed the presence of leaders from different parties and emphasised that differing views are normal in the democratic process, especially during elections.

“However, after the government is formed, we must unite and cooperate for the benefit of the people. The public expects leadership that unites, not divides,” he added.

He further stated that such unity should be extended beyond open house celebrations to other initiatives, including meetings and discussions aimed at strengthening leadership cohesion in the state.

Regarding Sabah’s claim in the Malaysia Agreement, Ewon stressed that it is not the responsibility of a single party but the duty of the Sabah Government, involving all parties and representatives, whether at the State Assembly or Parliament.

“I am consistent in saying that we need to unite for Sabah,” he stressed.