KOTA KINABALU: The Sabah government is committed to strengthening the state’s security to support economic growth under the Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) 2.0 development plan.
Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor stated that robust security is crucial to fully leverage Sabah’s potential as a Blue Economy hub in East ASEAN.
He noted that Sabah’s strategic position along regional trade routes and its rich marine biodiversity present significant opportunities for the state to develop its maritime sector.
“Within the framework of SMJ 2.0, the maritime sector and Blue Economy have been identified as new growth drivers through the development of modern fishing industries, strengthening the seafood value chain, marine tourism, and enhancing port infrastructure,” he said.
However, he emphasised that all these potentials can only be realised if the security of the state’s waters is consistently guaranteed.
Sabah boasts a coastline of over 1,400 kilometres and plays a vital role as the frontline of national security in Borneo and the Sulu Sea.
In Eastern Sabah, the Safe Eastern Sabah Zone encompasses 10 districts: Kudat, Kota Marudu, Pitas, Beluran, Sandakan, Kinabatangan, Lahad Datu, Kunak, Semporna, and Tawau.
This area is reinforced by the Eastern Sabah Security Command, which coordinates land, sea, and air security operations in Eastern Sabah.
Hajiji remarked that enhancing security not only protects the citizens but also opens up opportunities for the development of border towns as new economic hubs through cross-border trade, logistics, and port activities.
He made these comments during a speech at the handing over of traditional cakes in conjunction with Hari Raya Aidilfitri to security personnel and health workers at Menara Kinabalu today.
Source- SNT
