KUCHING, Sept 16 (Bernama) -- The diversity of regions, races, cultures, and religions is Malaysia's strength that unites the people as one family, said Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.
He said that the spirit of unity, mutual respect, and cooperation need to be continuously nurtured to ensure Malaysia remains a peaceful, stable and prosperous country.
"At this truly historic and meaningful moment, I would like to invite all Malaysians to embrace the theme of Malaysia Day this year, which is ‘Malaysia Madani, Kesejahteraan Dinikmati’," he said in a video message during the national-level Malaysia Day 2026 celebration at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) here.
The guest of honour at the event was Sarawak Governor Tun Dr. Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar.
Also present were Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
Hajiji said the theme reflects the government's commitment to building a developed, inclusive and harmonious nation, while ensuring that the benefits of the country's prosperity can be shared fairly by all citizens and regions.
"May Malaysia, especially Sabah, continue to be peaceful and prosperous, and lead the country towards success in all fields.
"Let us celebrate this Malaysia Day with a spirit of patriotism so that the harmony of the people, regardless of race and religion, continues to be preserved and lasts," he said.
Approximately 5,000 attendees participated in the national-level Malaysia Day 2026 celebration at BCCK tonight.
In addition to the Prime Minister's speech, the official event that started at 8.15 pm also witnessed the signing ceremony of the Malaysia Day Celebration Special Book.
The celebration also featured a performance combining guest artistes, a musical theatre, and a final performance involving three regions: Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah and Sarawak.
-- BERNAMA