KOTA KINABALU: Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor expressed the need for positive advancements in the Eastern Sabah Security Zone (ESS Zone) to be communicated more effectively to foreign representatives, including embassies and high commissions in the country.
“This is crucial so they can reassess and subsequently consider lowering the travel advisory level for Eastern Sabah based on the positive developments, where no kidnapping for ransom cases have been reported in the area since January 2020.
“This will boost international tourist confidence and encourage more visitors to come to Sabah, particularly to enjoy the various attractive tourist destinations on the East Coast of the state,” he stated during the Joint Committee meeting for the ESS Zone at Menara Kinabalu, here today.
The meeting was co-chaired by the Chief Minister and the Minister of Home Affairs, Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail.
“Overall, the security situation in the ESS Zone is good and under control. Recently, I personally visited six islands in the waters of Sabah to inspect the control posts and assess the preparedness of security personnel on the ground,” he added.
He noted that the absence of reported kidnapping cases for ransom over the past six years is a significant achievement for the Eastern Sabah Security Command (ESSCOM), the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), the Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM), the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (APMM), and all security agencies.
“I would like to express my highest appreciation to ESSCOM, PDRM, ATM, APMM, and all security agencies for their commitment and sacrifices in ensuring the safety of the waters and land of Eastern Sabah,” he added.
Source-Sabah Media
