KKCC 2024 showcases the spirit of unity in Sabah – Dr. Joachim
14 December 2024
KOTA KINABALU: The Kota Kinabalu Christmas Celebration (KKCC) 2024 stands as a symbol of harmony within the community of Sabah, highlighting the spirit of love and unity that was evident throughout the event.
Deputy Chief Minister II, Datuk Seri Dr. Joachim Gunsalam, stated that KKCC 2024 underscores the importance of respecting differences and strengthening relationships within the community.
He expressed hope that this annual celebration would create sweet memories and further strengthen the bonds of brotherhood among participants.
Speaking at the closing night of KKCC 2024 at Padang Merdeka, Kota Kinabalu last night (December 13), Dr. Joachim emphasised that the success of this event could not have been achieved without strong support from the community.
One of the major achievements of this year’s celebration was a new record set in the Malaysia Book of Records for the "Largest Distribution of Hand-Made Bead Necklaces," with over 10,000 necklaces distributed for free to all attendees.
"It is a symbol of the unity and love that we celebrate together," he said.
"We are grateful to the Government today for allowing us to practice our religion without any hindrance. Therefore, as a sign that the current Government embraces religious diversity, the allocation for all non-Muslim adherents has increased year after year, with next year's (2025) allocation reaching RM70 million compared to RM56 million this year (2024).
"This is a remarkable increase, and we are very appreciative of Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor," said the Kundasang Assemblyman.
Other events that added to the vibrancy of the celebration included a decorated float parade, a traditional Christmas concert, the creation of a new song for the Christmas album, and the KKCC Fun Run. A beach clean-up program also highlighted the commitment to environmental sustainability.
Dr. Joachim also congratulated the Sabah Council of Churches (SCC) and the Kota Kinabalu City Hall (DBKK) for their close cooperation, which was fundamental to the success of this year’s celebration.
The theme of KKCC 2024, "Love in Action," is hoped to further ignite the spirit of unity among the people of Sabah.
He also expressed appreciation for the KKCC 2024 Executive Committee, led by Elder Prof. Dr. Jidon Janaun, for their dedication and efforts in bringing this colourful event to life.
Present at the event were the Minister of Rural Development, Datuk Jahid Jahim; the Deputy Speaker of the State Assembly, Datuk Richard Yong We Kong; Tuaran Member of Parliament and Chairman of Sabah Electricity Sdn Bhd, Datuk Seri Madius Tangau; Assistant Minister of Finance, Datuk Tan Lee Fat; Assistant Minister of Youth and Sports, Datuk Tan Lee Fat; President of the Sabah Churches and Co-Chair of KKCI 2024, Bishop Datuk Melter Jiki Tais; Secretary of the Borneo Evangelical Mission (SIB) Sabah representing SIB Sabah President, Reverend Datuk Jerry Ir. Dusing; Director-General of the Financial Sector of Kota Kinabalu City Hall (DBKK), Lifred Wong; as well as various Permanent Secretaries and Government Officials.
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