18/12/2025

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THURSDAY | DEC 18, 2025

Christmas cheer for Pahang indigenous communities

Sabah Yuletide celebration a platform for unity, harmony KOTA KINABALU: The Sabah 2025 Christmas celebration is not only a religious occasion but also an important platform to unite Sabahans in the spirit of goodwill, mutual respect and togetherness, said Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor. He said the state-level Christmas celebration reflects social maturity and the beauty of harmony among the people, proving that diversity in religion, culture and backgrounds is not a dividing factor but a strength that unites the people as one big family. “The theme of this year’s celebration, ‘Hope for Peace in Love’, is very appropriate as it invites everyone to return to fundamental human values such as peace, love, hope and shared responsibility. “Love is the foundation of all relationships, whether within families, communities, society or in our relationship with the environment. This is the philosophy we seek to instil throughout the celebration,” he said at the opening ceremony of the Sabah Christmas Celebration 2025 at Padang Merdeka on Tuesday. Hajiji’s speech was read out by Deputy Chief Minister I and Sabah Public Works and Utilities Minister Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam. The opening ceremony was officiated by the Yang di-Pertua Negeri of Sabah Tun Musa Aman. Hajiji said the celebration serves as a platform to strengthen social unity and the people’s well-being in line with the aspirations of the Sabah Maju Jaya roadmap. “This celebration reminds us that family is where love and hope begin. Within the community, the spirit of consensus and cooperation is key to harmonious communal living.” He said such celebrations could serve as a bridge connecting Sabah’s multiracial and multi-religious communities while showcasing the true face of the state which is rich in diversity yet united by shared values. “On behalf of the state leadership, I wish all Sabahans who are celebrating a Merry Christmas.” – Bernama

o Besides cash contribution and hosting festive party, STM Lottery provides essential food items to 100 adults, gifts to 150 children

Ű BY ANDREW SAGAYAM newsdesk@thesundaily.com

KUALA LUMPUR: STM Lottery Sdn Bhd (STM Lottery), in collaboration with Strategic Methods and Ongoing Achievements Bhd (Semoa), organised a joyful Christmas celebration for indigenous people on Sunday. The majority of the people at the celebration held at the Semoa Centre in Raub, Pahang were from the Temia tribe. Also present were the Jakun, Semai and Temuan , Rungut and Murut ( Orang Asal Sabah ) as well as LunBawang and Kayan ( Orang Asal Sarawak ). As part of the firm’s Helping Hands corporate social responsibility efforts, STM Lottery gave RM35,000 to Semoa at the event. In addition to the cash contribution and hosting the Christmas party, STM Lottery provided essential food provisions to 100 adults and presented Christmas gifts to 150 children. The initiative was aimed at bringing cheer to the local community during the festive season. A vibrant programme of activities were part of the event, starting with dances performed by the indigenous children. Other highlights included a performance of Christmas carols, Christmas message, bamboo dance, distribution of gifts, cake cutting as well as a fellowship meal. STM Lottery General Manager (Communications & Sustainability) Giam Say Khoon said the collaboration reflects the company’s commitment to spreading joy and hope during the festive season while supporting underserved communities. “The event was held to showcase the spirit of giving during this Christmas period, provide

The joyful Christmas gathering at the Semoa Centre in Raub, Pahang. – PIC COURTESY OF SPORTS TOTO MALAYSIA

“STM Lottery employees who acted as volunteers played an active role throughout the event, assisting with logistics and engaging with the community to ensure a smooth and meaningful celebration.” Semoa founder Pastor Timothy Cheah expressed appreciation for STM Lottery’s continued support, adding that such partnerships strengthen community bonds and create a lasting positive impact.

entertainment to the people and promote community bonding, making it a festive season memorable for all. “We would like to thank Semoa for having us. We would also like to congratulate the organisation for its continued efforts in uplifting the living standards of the indigenous community by emphasising to parents the importance of education so that they continue to send their children to school.

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