This Labour Day Sabah Shows Malaysia What True Unity Looks Like

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Letter to editor
AS we celebrate Labour Day today which honours the dignity of all workers from all backgrounds, it’s worth reflecting on the state of unity in our country.
Sadly, recent events in Peninsular Malaysia – from the Jalur Gemilang debacles to the endless politicising of race and religion – suggest that unity remains elusive.
But all is not lost as across the South China Sea, a different narrative quietly unfolds. In Sabah, a more hopeful model of governance is taking shape – one that embraces diversity, encourages inclusion and ensures no community is left behind.
Led by Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor, Sabah’s government has made unity a lived experience rather than a mere slogan.
While some leaders in the Peninsula remain caught in divisive debates, Sabah’s administration has focused on policies that reflect genuine inclusivity.
This year, for instance, RM70 mil was allocated to Chinese and mission schools as well as non-Muslim religious organisations – a move rooted in fairness and respect for all communities.

Sabah’s commitment to representation is also evident in its appointments. Rather than prioritising ethnicity, the focus has been on merit.
Capable individuals from different backgrounds such as Kadazan leader Datuk Philemon Lajawai have been appointed as Public Works Director, and Dr Mary Golingai as the Veterinary Services Director.
These decisions prioritise competence over communal lineage, sending a clear message that every Sabahan matters.
Sabah Veterinary Services director Dr Mary GolingaiSabah Public Works Director Datuk Philemon LajawaiBalancing act
When a political crisis struck Sabah in early 2023 – with some allies attempting to topple his government – Hajiji responded not with hostility or narrow politics but by forging an even broader alliance.
He brought in partners from across the divide, including lawmakers from Pakatan Harapan (PH) and some from Barisan Nasional (BN), to stabilise the government.
Today, Sabah stands as perhaps Malaysia’s best example of genuine power-sharing where different races and political ideologies work together without suspicion.
Sabah’s development too has been anchored in unity. Through the Sabah Maju Jaya roadmap, the state is not only pushing for economic progress but ensuring that all communities share in the benefits.
Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji NoorThe establishment of SMJ Energy to manage oil and gas resources locally recently yielded a RM50 mil dividend, a win that was celebrated across the board, not just by political elites.
As a Malaysian observing from afar, I find inspiration in this. On Labour Day, we often speak of standing together in solidarity for fair treatment and rights. But that solidarity should also define how we see one another as fellow Malaysians.
Malaysia stands at a crossroads. One path leads us deeper into suspicion and division; the other, toward mutual respect and shared purpose. In Sabah, we see what’s possible when leaders like Hajiji choose dialogue over discord and put the people first.
As we honour the contributions of workers this Labour Day, let us also recognise the harder work of building trust and unity. Sabah shows us that unity isn’t just a dream. It’s a daily choice, shaped by leadership and shared values.
Flags and slogans may symbolise patriotism, but true unity is built by those who govern with every citizen in mind. Today, Sabah, under Hajiji’s steady stewardship, is showing us the way. 
Raymond Ladin
Sandakan
The views expressed are solely of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of  MMKtT.
- Focus Malaysia.

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