Unity enhanced through Christmas Gathering

By AVV

4 January 2025

PENAMPANG: The United Progressive Kinabalu Organisation (UPKO) Christmas celebrations in Tenom today was attended by people from all walks of life.

Rowindy Lawrence, UPKO Supreme Member Executive and Deputy Organising Secretary UPKO Malaysia said the gatherings exemplified the unity achieved with such celebrations.

The crowds which showed people from various ethnic groups and creeds showed that this unity transcend individual differences, she stated.

"The presence of the UPKO President Datuk Ewon Benedick was a great source of encouragement to all present, as well as UPKO Tenom division chief Junik Bajit . The show of unity was also apparent with the presence of Raymond Ahuar from PKR

Datuk Lucas Umbul from Parti Cinta Sabah and Riduan Rubin an independent who is Tenom Member of Parliament (MP) as well as Datuk Seri Panglima Madius Tangau, the UPKO Honorary President ," she stated adding that these leaders interacted freely with the people present much to their delight.

The traditions such as sharing meals, exchanging gifts, and participating in festive activities help strengthen familial and communal bonds, she said adding that this could be applied to a larger crowd such as the gathering today.

Unity in politics can be more challenging to achieve, yet it is equally essential for a functioning society which can be achieved through such gatherings.

"There are times for politics but now is the time to stand together and serve the people," she reiterated.