Malaysia

Anwar vows sustained development for Sabah, Sarawak in Kaamatan, Gawai message

The Prime Minister pledges continued investment in education, healthcare, infrastructure and social wellbeing as the nation marks the Kaamatan and Gawai harvest festivals

Updated 2 months ago · Published on 30 May 2026 9:31AM

Anwar vows sustained development for Sabah, Sarawak in Kaamatan, Gawai message
Anwar reaffirms the federal government’s commitment to ensuring Sabah and Sarawak receive equitable and sustained development (File pic)- May 30, 2026

PRIME MINISTER Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has pledged that the MADANI Government will continue prioritising equitable development in Sabah and Sarawak, stressing that both regions must share fully in the nation’s progress through improved public services, stronger infrastructure and enhanced opportunities for their people.

In a message marking the Kaamatan and Gawai harvest celebrations, Anwar said the government remained committed to delivering meaningful improvements to the quality of life in East Malaysia, with particular emphasis on education, healthcare and basic infrastructure.

He said the commitment must be reflected through better educational opportunities, access to quality healthcare services, comprehensive development of essential infrastructure and a more dignified standard of living for communities across both states.

"In the diversity of customs, languages and cultures that enrich our nation, these celebrations remind us that Malaysia’s strength lies in its ability to preserve harmony amid diversity, strengthen the spirit of brotherhood and nurture a culture of mutual respect.

"Kaamatan and Gawai are celebrations of thanksgiving rooted in the traditions and heritage of the people of Sabah and Sarawak, observed with deep meaning in a spirit of togetherness, consensus and appreciation for the blessings of the land.

"I extend Kotobian Tadau Tagazo Do Kaamatan and Gayu Guru Gerai Nyamai to all the people of Sabah and Sarawak," he said.

The Prime Minister said the annual harvest festivals serve as an important reminder of the values that underpin Malaysia’s multicultural identity, highlighting how mutual understanding and respect continue to strengthen national cohesion.

He also expressed hope that this year’s Kaamatan and Gawai celebrations would bring prosperity and blessings to communities across Sabah and Sarawak while further reinforcing the spirit of unity, cooperation and togetherness that forms the foundation of the country’s harmony and stability.

The message comes as the federal government continues efforts to address regional development disparities and strengthen economic and social opportunities in the two Bornean states, which play a vital role in Malaysia’s national development and multicultural character. - May 30, 2026

Spotlight

Malaysia

RM245m Penang Hill cable car project 32 per cent complete - CM

By Ian McIntyre

Malaysia

Six locals charged over alleged kidnapping of Singaporean couple in Johor

Malaysia

PM: No political, racial or religious shield for those found guilty in TH, Felda probes

Malaysia

Singapore security guard jailed 14 days, fined RM7,000 for insulting Islam

Health

Dengue cases soar 56% to 58,079 as nation records 55 deaths

Malaysia

NGOs urge BERSAMA to put Indian community agenda on political radar

By Alfian Z.M. Tahir

Health

MOH warns seniors against unproven hydrogen inhalers

Malaysia

Former Tabung Haji CEO remanded seven days as MACC RCI probe deepens

Malaysia

21 held in KLIA-Nilai crackdown on alleged online love scam syndicate

You may be interested

Malaysia

Elderly man, son and granddaughter burnt to death in Sabah house fire

Malaysia

Malaysia, Brunei set deadline to demarcate boundary, enhance border security

Malaysia

NGOs urge BERSAMA to put Indian community agenda on political radar

By Alfian Z.M. Tahir

Malaysia

Woman killed by collapsing iron pole after car crashes into Kajang food court

Malaysia

PM: No political, racial or religious shield for those found guilty in TH, Felda probes

Malaysia

Two cyclists killed after car swerves into them on Putrajaya road

Malaysia

‘Look at temple dispute based on facts and laws’ – DAP reps tell Rayer

By Alfian Z.M. Tahir

Malaysia

Abdul Hadi escalates PAS-DAP row, says four Malay DAP leaders ‘have not studied’