The NGO which calls itself Sabah Youth Solidarity (SBS) took the initiative to celebrate Sabah's 50th independence anniversary by hoisting the State's original flag below the Malaysia Commemoration Arch at Lintasan Deasoka here.
Chairman, Stephan Gaimin said the event was not merely in commemoration of the day Sabah gained independence but SBS wanted to give more exposure to Sabah's independence history that is supposed to be celebrated in a bigger way.
He said it was not sufficient for the government to promote this year's Aug 31 celebration in conjunction with 'Sabah's 50th year progress in independence in Malaysia'.
"Why not just say Sabah's 50th Independence? There is no need to be like hiding in the bush," he said when met after the event.
According to him, it was important for both the State and Federal governments to give a clear picture to the people that this year, Sabah is celebrating its 50th anniversary while at the same time Malaysians in West Malaysia were celebrating their 56th National Day.
In this respect, Stephan said they would continue with the programme to create awareness especially among the younger generation on this matter as well as the importance in protecting the history on Sunday at the Gaya Street Fair.
Based on the present situation, SBS is worried about Sabah's independence history being lost and forgotten, he said.
“Awareness alone is not enough. As the younger generation, SBS urges all patriotic youths in Sabah to protect this history so that it will not get lost in time," he said.
Lending support to the event were leaders from Sabah Progressive Party (SAPP) led by President Datuk Yong Teck Lee and other senior leaders as well as Penampang MP, Darrel Leiking.
After the flag hoisting, the group then sang the Sabah anthem before dispersing peacefully.
By Chris Maskilone
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