A seminar to remember former Sabah leader Tun Mustapha Datu Harun will be jointly organized by religious agencies in Sabah this March.
The Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation, Datuk Dr. Arifin Mohd Arif, stated that the seminar will explore the thinking of Sabah’s first Head of State, Tun Mustapha Datu Harun, in various aspects that contributed to Sabah’s independence and development.
“This year, we will organize a Tun Mustapha Thought Seminar, coordinated by the Sabah Islamic Religious Council (MUIS), the Sabah Islamic Affairs Department (JHEAINS), the Muslim Youth Movement of Malaysia (ABIM), and the United Sabah Islamic Association (USIA).
“God willing, the seminar will delve into Tun Mustapha’s thoughts on education, the economy, unity, and religious propagation.
“I have requested JHEAINS, MUIS, and USIA to arrange this seminar, and we are likely to hold it in March in collaboration with ABIM,” he said during the 30th Haul (commemoration) ceremony for the late Tun Mustapha on Thursday.
Tun Datu Mustapha Datu Harun (1918–1995) was a prominent Sabahan leader, politician, and statesman who played a significant role in the history of Malaysia. Born in Kudat, North Borneo (now Sabah), he was of Bajau-Suluk descent and became a key figure in Sabah’s journey to independence and its integration into Malaysia in 1963.
Tun Mustapha served as the first Governor of Sabah from 1963 to 1965 and later as the Chief Minister of Sabah from 1967 to 1975. As a strong advocate of unity and development, he was instrumental in fostering Sabah’s progress in education, infrastructure, and economy during his tenure.
He was the founder of the United Sabah National Organisation (USNO), a political party that championed Sabah’s rights and interests within the Federation of Malaysia. Known for his charisma and political acumen, Tun Mustapha also emphasized the promotion of Islam in Sabah, earning him widespread respect among various communities.
Despite controversies surrounding his political career, Tun Mustapha is remembered as a pivotal figure in shaping modern Sabah. He passed away on January 2, 1995, and remains a respected historical figure in the state.
The event began with the recitation of Surah Yasin and tahlil prayers led by the State Mosque Imam, Suhaidi Kuanting, and a prayer by the Sabah Mufti, Datuk Bungsu @ Aziz Jaafar.
Also present were MUIS President Datuk Seri Panglima Yahya Hussin, USIA President Datuk Sapawi Ahmad, JHEAINS Director Datuk Jumain Abdul Ghani, and Sabah Director of the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM), Datuk Norjeli Dais. – January 3, 2025
