KOTA KINABALU: In facing challenges of the coronavirus pandemic, the people of Sabah should learn from the story of Huminodun's sacrifice, especially during the Harvest Festival or Kaamatan celebration.
According to Kadazandusun folklore, the legend of Huminodun tells of the tragic sacrifice of a maiden who gave her life and was sacrificed by her father, Kinoingan, to save the people from famine and bring about a bountiful harvest.
Chief Minister Datuk Seri Mohd Shafie Apdal said the people, like Huminodun, needed to sacrifice comfort as well as freedom by avoiding holding mass celebrations and to always comply with the government's standard operating procedure (SOP).
"The state government has implemented various measures to combat the spread of Covid-19 in the state. Such measures are not intended to restrict the rakyat's freedom to celebrate festivity.
"Everything that we do is a precautionary measure to prevent further infection. Together, we need to be united and take responsibility in fighting the pandemic," he said in his Kaamatan message today.
In the spirit of Kaamatan, Shafie called on all Sabahans to strengthen unity, harmony and prosperity, adding all these elements were vital to ensure progress of the state and its people.
Being a unique multi-ethnic state, he said people should continue holding on to traditional values while moving forward to better progression.
"The unity we enjoy in Sabah is definitely a great example of the understanding and unity found in Malaysia.
"I believe we are all proud to share our cultural heritage not only with fellow Malaysians, but also with the world," he said.