Goh (front row, sixth left) leading the FCAS delegation in a group photo with Sabah Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Christina Liew (fifth left), who is also Co-Chairperson of the Malaysia Day 2024 Celebration Organising Committee.
KOTA KINABALU: The Federation of Chinese Associations Malaysia (Huazong) President Tan Sri T C Goh has called on the Government to incorporate a comprehensive account of Malaysia’s formation on September 16 into the national history curriculum and school textbooks.
He emphasised that this would help Malaysians, particularly the younger generation, gain a deeper understanding of the nation’s formation, including the role of East Malaysia.
Goh highlighted that, similar to the 1963 Malaysia Agreement (MA63), all Malaysians should have a clear grasp of its contents and historical significance. He believes that only through such awareness can the true spirit of “East and West, One Malaysia” be fully realised.
He also pointed out that beyond the annual National Day on August 31, there are other key dates that hold special significance, particularly for the people of East Malaysia. These include Sabah Day on August 31, Sarawak Day on July 22 and Malaysia Day on September 16. Each of these dates plays a crucial role in the country’s history.
Goh, who is also the President of the Federation of Chinese Associations Sabah (FCAS), made these remarks during the 2024 Malaysia Day celebration held at Padang Merdeka here, leading a delegation of FCAS leaders and representatives.
This year’s celebration was attended by distinguished guests including Sabah Head of State Tun Juhar Mahiruddin, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor, Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg, and several Federal and State ministers, political leaders and other prominent figures, creating a lively and festive atmosphere.
Goh also expressed his full support for Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s remarks during the Malaysia Day celebration, in which he emphasised the importance of understanding Malaysia’s history of nation-building and the spirit of its founding leaders who fought for independence and established the country.
The Prime Minister called for national unity in driving Malaysia’s development and progress.
He stressed that the Prime Minister’s call should be embraced by all Malaysians, particularly by government departments and agencies.
“This should be implemented comprehensively, with measures such as integrating this knowledge into school textbooks to foster a deeper understanding of national history and inspire patriotism among citizens,” Goh said.
He reiterated that the National Day, Malaysia Day, Sabah Day and Sarawak Day are all key milestones in Malaysia’s history.
“These events must be accurately and comprehensively included in the national history curriculum and school textbooks, forming an essential part of the nation’s historical narrative,” he emphasised.
Goh was also pleased to note that the FCAS delegation, alongside fellow Malaysians, celebrated Malaysia’s 61st anniversary (Malaysia Day), the National Day and the 61st anniversary of Sabah’s independence (Sabah Day) the previous evening.
“This is a momentous occasion, where we collectively express our aspirations for a prosperous Malaysia and the continued progress of Sabah.”
He added that the grand celebration showcased the strength of national unity and social harmony, injecting new momentum into the bright future of both Malaysia and Sabah, as well as East Malaysia.
Also in attendance were Goh’s wife, Puan Sri Joanne Ho, FCAS central committee members, and leaders and representatives of various FCAS affiliate organisations.
