KOTA KINABALU: The Sabah Council of Datuks (MDNS) is committed to intensifying efforts in rendering full cooperation to the government in uplifting the welfare and livelihood of Sabahans.

Its president Datuk Claudius Roman said the council will continue its enabling role to promote better understanding among the public on government policies and initiatives to ensure the preservation of harmony and unity of the people.

"The MDNS endeavours to further its initiative to enhance rapport and ties in solidarity with our members in supporting community outreach initiatives in assisting the underprivileged in Sabah" he said at the Patron's Night 2017 last Saturday.

The event was organised by the MDNS in conjunction with the official 64th birthday celebration of the Sabah Head of State Tun Juhar Mahiruddin.

Also present were the Head of State's wife, Toh Puan Norlidah R.M Jasni, other dignitaries such as Sabah Legislative Assembly Speaker Datuk Seri Hj Syed Abas Syed Ali and Deputy President of MDNS, Tan Sri Datuk Seri Dr TC Goh, among others.

Roman said the state government's support for the MDNS will be the catalyst in the council's spirit to continue contributing their ideas and efforts for Sabah.

"We have a lot of programmes lined up for 2018 which include numerous social outreach activities, as well as a visit to West Malaysia to enhance rapport with other Datuks there.”

During the ceremony, The Nur Jauhar Foundation also received a donation of RM50,000 presented by the council to support charitable activities in remote and interior parts of Sabah.

The cheque was presented by Roman to the Chairman of the Nur Jauhar Foundation, Al Hambra Tun Juhar, the eldest son of the Head of State.

Roman said the MDNS, of which Tun Juhar is Patron, has carried out numerous social outreach programmes to assist underprivileged communities in Sabah.

The event was a grand affair which saw Tun Juhar cutting his birthday cake, together with his wife and other state dignitaries and guests who attended the event.

MDNS is an association formed by recipients of the distinguished Illustrious Orders of Seri Panglima Darjah Kinabalu (SPDK) and the Panglima Gemilang Darjah Kinabalu (PGDK). The Council was registered with the Registrar of Societies (RoS) on July 20, 2010.