Legacy inspires dedicated leaders
6 June 2024
By AVV
PENAMPANG: Today commemorates the 48th anniversary of the Double Six tragedy, a somber event in which 11 individuals, including several prominent State leaders, lost their lives in a plane crash near Sembulan.
Among the victims were two esteemed leaders: Tun Fuad Stephens, the Chief Minister, and Datuk Peter Mojuntin, the Local Government and Housing Minister.
During the commemoration ceremony held today, Datuk Donald Mojuntin, the son of the late leader, emphasised the importance of honouring the memory of those who tragically perished in this event.
Donald who is United Progressive Kinabalu Organisation ( UPKO) Deputy President said these leaders were trailblazers in the quest for Sabah's independence and in the formation of Malaysia.
The events surrounding them should be meticulously documented in Sabah's historical records, ensuring that future generations have the opportunity to comprehend these crucial moments.
This memorial serves not only as a tribute to those fallen leaders but also as a beacon for generations to come, Donald said adding that understanding the past is vital for any nation or state, as it highlights the qualities and virtues of the leaders who have shaped history.
The Double Six tragedy holds a particularly poignant significance, as the deceased leaders exemplified the essence of Sabah - a land that embraces its multiracial, multicultural, and multi-religious identity. This team of leaders demonstrated that a unified political entity could cater to the diverse needs of all Sabahans, regardless of their background.
It is regrettable that such an important event is omitted from history books. Sabah played a pivotal role in the formation of Malaysia, and it should be imperative that significant occurrences like the Double Six tragedy find a place in the historical narratives, he said.
Regarding the 'Lift the Ban' campaign for the book "Glorious Son of the Kadazan," which chronicles the life of Datuk Peter Mojuntin, Donald expressed bewilderment over the ban, as no clear reason had been provided.
The book, authored by Bernard Sta Maria, is readily available online, prompting confusion as to why it remains prohibited.
Donald emphasised that the book is factual and extensively researched, having consulted key individuals, including members of Mojuntin's family.
He advocated for the book's ban to be lifted, enabling the people to access this valuable piece of literature.
Reflecting on his own leadership role, Donald acknowledged the challenges of living up to his father's esteemed reputation. His father, known as the Golden Son of the Kadazan, left a significant legacy, making it a daunting task to follow in his footsteps. Donald highlighted that he drew inspiration from his father's legacy that he applied into his own service to the community.
Meanwhile Penampang UPKO Youth Chief Billy Joe Dominic said the commemoration ceremony should be carried out annually to ensure that the struggles of past leaders are not forgotten.
Their exemplary leadership that ended in a tragedy where there is yet a clear cause shown should be commemorated so that youth will be knowledgeable about this tragic part of history pertaining to leaders in the past.
He said the commemoration should never stop, even if there was a closure on what actually happened.
He also advocated the 'lift the ban' campaign on the book 'Glorious Son of the Kadazan' to enable people to access and gain a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.
In today's event, after the commemoration ceremony at the Double Six Monument Sembulan, family, relatives and friends of the late Datuk Peter Mojuntin congregated at the Memorial Park in Dongonggon Penampang where his statue stands tall, paying their respect to the fallen leader by placing flowers before the effigy.
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