Chinese Community Continues to Help Boost Development

Sabah has always celebrated cultural and religious occasions in ways and atmosphere admired by many. The coming Chinese New Year embodies the values of family, unity, and new hope and reflects the rich cultural heritage of the Chinese community. It also serves as a platform to strengthen harmony and the spirit of togetherness among Sabah’s multiracial population.

Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Hajiji Haji Noor called on the Chinese community in the state to continue to be a strategic development partner to build a progressive Sabah as it has done so throughout Sabah’s history and growth. In a Chinese New Year message on 15 February 2026, Hajiji asked again for the Chinese community to be a partner in progress and to continue strengthening cooperation with the State Government to develop Sabah.

“Through the state’s economic blueprint - the Sabah Maju Jaya 2.0 - we ensure that the state’s growth and progress is inclusive for all and that the state’s prosperity is enjoyed inclusively regardless of race and background of the people, because unity is the key to the stability and prosperity of this state,” Hajiji said.

“In 2026, we welcome and celebrate the Year of the Fire Horse, which symbolises energy, courage, and innovation. This spirit inspires us to continue moving forward with structured planning and close cooperation for Sabah’s sustainable and balanced development. We want the Chinese community to move forward with us to drive economic growth and human capital development.” This year’s Chinese New Year – Year of the Horse – falls on 17 February 2026 and 18 February 2026, with Malaysia celebrating the occasion during the two-day public holiday. “I wish the Chinese community in Sabah in particular, and throughout the country in general, a Happy Chinese New Year, Gong Xi Fa Cai,” Hajiji said.