Harvest Festival To Foster National Unity, Says Pairin

KOTA KINABALU, Feb 22 (Bernama) -- The Harvest Festival, which is celebrated every May in Sabah, will be a catalyst to foster national unity which is the main thrust of the 1Malaysia concept, Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Seri Joseph Pairin Kitingan said.

He said Malaysians, irrespective of race or religious background, valued peace, harmony and prosperity.

Pairin, who is also the State Level Harvest Festival Committee chairman, said the theme for this year's festival, which is "Cultural Diversity Foundation of Harmony", was in line with the 1Malaysia concept.

The theme stressed on the importance of cooperation, togetherness, harmony and acceptance of cultural differences as a source of strength, he said after chairing the committee's meeting here Monday.

Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Aman is expected to launch the festival in Keningau on May 1.

Yang Dipertua Negeri Tun Ahmadshah Abdullah will close the event on May 31 at the Hongkod Koisaan in Penampang, near here.