By: Nurul Fazliana Norman
KOTA KINABALU: Aug 20, 2026— This year’s Sabah Day 2026 celebration will place emphasis on the younger generation, aiming to build their self-confidence, identity, and spirit in filling the meaning of independence and contributing to Sabah’s development.
Deputy Chief Minister II, Datuk Masidi Manjun, said the youth must have confidence in their own abilities to compete and achieve success.
“There is nothing wrong with us as Sabahans. We have everything that enables us to move forward.”
He said this during a special media conference in conjunction with the state-level National Day and Sabah Day 2026 celebration at RTM today.
According to Masidi, the celebration is not merely about remembering the struggles of past generations, but should also serve as a platform for the youth to look ahead and play their part in filling the meaning of independence.
He said the history of the previous generation’s struggles should serve as a guide, while the challenges and shortcomings faced should not be used as excuses to hinder progress.
“Do not let these problems be our undoing. Make them an important motivation to fuel our spirit to move forward,” he said.
The National Day celebration on Aug 31 will involve 180 contingents at Dataran Bandaraya, Kota Kinabalu, while the Sabah Day celebration in the evening will feature various performances, with the main event starting around 8pm.
Highlights of the celebration include the recitation of the Sabah Day Proclamation, laser and light shows, choir performances, and a special presentation titled “Sabah Tanah Airku”.
