KOTA KINABALU: A plan is being made to gazette Aug 31 as Sabah Day, apart from just observing the date as Merdeka Day, says Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey Kitingan.

       He said Sabah gained its independence on Aug 31, 1963, and it should be commemorated in the state.

       “Sabah Day, a day to commemorate Sabah’s independence day which historically fell on Aug 31, 1963, could be observed for the first time next year.

       “I have already prepared the Cabinet paper to gazette Sabah Day, which has been one of the main annual celebrations for my Sabah STAR party, ” said Jeffrey, who is the party president.

       However, he noted that the gazettement would require unanimous support from the state assembly.

       Nevertheless, he is confident that it can be formally gazetted next year.

       He said Sabah STAR had always celebrated Sabah Day and the rest of the people in Sabah should join in as well.