Sabah Holds State-Level Christmas Celebration for the First Time, Showcasing Inclusive Governance and Support for Religious Diversity

KOTA KINABALU, 15 December 2025 – The Sabah State Government will hold its first-ever State-Level Christmas Celebration from 16 to 19 December 2025 at Padang Merdeka, Kota Kinabalu, highlighting an inclusive governance approach and government support for religious diversity across the state.

Datuk Ewon Benedick, Deputy Chief Minister of Sabah and Minister of Industry, Entrepreneurship, and Transportation, said the event, previously organized by the Kota Kinabalu City Hall (DBKK) in collaboration with the Sabah Council of Churches (SCC), has now been elevated to a state-level celebration as a symbol of openness and harmony among Sabah’s multi-ethnic and multi-religious communities.

The opening ceremony will be officiated by Yang di-Pertua Negeri Sabah, Tun Datuk Seri Panglima Musa Haji Aman, while the closing ceremony will be led by Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Haji Noor.

This year’s theme, “Hope for Peace in Love”, emphasizes unity, harmony, and mutual respect among Sabahans of diverse backgrounds, in line with the Sabah First vision.

In addition to a vibrant stage program, the celebration features a People’s Feast involving 100 local entrepreneurs, reinforcing government support for micro and small businesses.

Datuk Ewon invited all Sabahans to join the celebration, giving meaning and value to this historic event. More information on the program can be obtained via Datuk Ewon Benedick’s official social media channels, the Ministry of Industry, Entrepreneurship, and Transportation Sabah, DBKK, and the Sabah Information Department.