KOTA KINABALU: As Malaysians usher in the 64th National Day tomorrow, Sabah also marked celebrations at the state level by hoisting the Jalur Gemilang and state flag on the peak of Mount Kinabalu.
The mission was carried out by a team of mountain park rangers a couple of days after the launch of the state-level National Day month-long celebration and Fly the Jalur Gemilang campaign at the State Administrative Centre here.
During the launching ceremony on Aug 16, which was organised by the Sabah Local Government and Housing Ministry, Kinabalu Park senior ranger Engelbert Panil received the flags from Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.
On Aug 18, a group of seven people led by Mohd Fazlie Musitin began climbing the mountain at 8.30am and arrived at the peak the following day at 7.05am.
The mission to hoist the flags as well as the Sabah Parks flag on the peak of the mountain was completed at 8.30am.
Hajiji, in a separate statement, urged Malaysians in Sabah to unite and celebrate the National Day with pride and patriotism.
"Be grateful for the peace and harmony that we uphold. Let us set aside our differences and discard elements that may threaten unity.
"Let us focus on our similarities and move forward to build a better nation," he said in his 2021 National Day message.
Hajiji added that despite many challenges, Malaysians have always risen to the occasion and stood together with the government to tackle the difficult times including the ongoing fight against the Covid-19 pandemic which has affected lives and the economy.
"The National Day theme 'Malaysia Prihatin' or Malaysia Cares reflects the government and people's resolve and determination to fight the Covid-19 pandemic," he said.
The chief minister said the celebration was also to remember deeds and sacrifices of all front-liners who have been working so hard to ensure our country stays protected and safe from the Covid-19 and security threat.