Kota kinabalu: Sabah's security forces require stronger capabilities and high-tech assets to monitor the country's land and maritime borders against criminal elements entering through the state, says Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor. He mentioned that even though there have been no reports of intrusion incidents along Sabah's east coast recently, it is essential to continue strengthening security control.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Hajiji noted the federal government's allocation of funds for procuring security assets in Sabah. However, upon becoming Chief Minister, he communicated to the Prime Minister and the federal government the necessity for additional assets and capabilities to safeguard the waters. He emphasized that maintaining peace and good security would boost the tourism sector, attracting domestic and international visitors to Sabah, particularly its east coast, which features beautiful islands like Sipadan.
During a security inspection of tourism areas on the islands of Bakungan Kecil, Selingan, and Lankayan, Sabah Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Jafry Ariffin and Eastern Sabah Security Command (ESSCOM) Commander Datuk Victor Sanjos were present. Jafry highlighted the increased tourist confidence in the ESSZone, citing the United States' decision to lower its travel advisory for Sabah's east coast mainland to Level 1 from Level 2 as a positive sign for the tourism sector. He expressed confidence that the commitment of both federal and state governments to strengthening security would further enhance the country's tourism industry.
Victor stated that security forces were collaborating closely to ensure the safety of the waters in eastern Sabah, enabling tourism activities to continue and ensuring the well-being of the people. He encouraged the ESSZone community to act as the eyes, ears, and mobile radar for ESSCOM, to promptly address any criminal activities. He acknowledged that while cross-border crimes like smuggling and illegal immigration entries still occur, appropriate enforcement actions are taken. Regarding kidnap-for-ransom cases, Victor noted they are no longer occurring, although such groups may still exist but are not active, with security forces continuing to monitor the situation.