Salleh Said Keruak also said Sabahans should avoid any form of provocation that could disrupt harmony and undermine the state’s sovereignty.

In a post on Facebook to commemorate the founding of modern Sabah, Salleh, who heads the United Sabah Bumis Organization (USBO), said Nov 1 serves as a reminder of the shared responsibility among Sabahans to preserve unity and harmony.

“(These two factors) have always defined a multicultural and multiethnic Sabah,” he said.

Salleh said USBO remains dedicated to ensuring the spirit of unity, strength and cooperation that the various communities of Sabah continue to embrace.

He said the British North Borneo Company began its governance of Sabah on Nov 1, 1881, which marked the beginning of the state’s journey into the modern era.

The date, alongside the national days of Aug 31 and Sept 16, hold a deep meaning for all Sabahans, he said.

“Let us respect and celebrate this important day and move forward with resilience and determination to build a better future for Sabah.”