Moderation, mutual respect crucial - Sabah CM

"In Sabah, we respect one another despite our diverse cultural, ethnic, and religious backgrounds. In this context, I hope Sabah will continue to be an example and a model of solidarity and harmony in Malaysia.

"I believe development and progress can be achieved even though we may not share the same faith (religion)," he said in his message in conjunction with Aidilfitri tomorrow.

He said the state leadership, being a responsible government was actively implementing various programmes to further spur development in Sabah and ensure the well-being of the people.

"We will also continue to cooperate with the federal government and private sector in building up prime sectors such as oil and gas, agriculture and tourism as well as human capital development.

"The long-term benefits from this is employment opportunities and creation of more skilled and professional manpower, besides entrepreneurial opportunities.

"This includes the state development and progress roadmap, Sabah Development Corridor and Economic Transformation Programme as well as the 11th Malaysia Plan," he added.

Musa also called on civil servants and relevant quarters in the state to gear up their efforts in helping to implement the state government's development agenda and enable the grassroots to enjoy the benefits.

"This is especially important in the effort to bridge the development gap and improve the earning power of the people," he said.

Meanwhile, he stressed that national sovereignty and security were a priority which the government would never compromise.

"I wish to also express my sincere appreciation to all security forces involved in safeguarding and ensuring peace in the Eastern Sabah Security Zone (ESSZone)," he said.