Hajiji and Saifuddin jointly-chairing the ESS Zone Committee meeting at Menara Kinabalu here today.
KOTA KINABALU: Chief Minister Datuk Seri Haji Hajiji Haji Noor has called for the positive security developments in the Eastern Sabah Security Zone (ESS Zone) to be communicated more effectively to foreign missions, including embassies and high commissions in Malaysia.
He said this is important to enable them to reassess and subsequently consider lowering their travel advisories for Eastern Sabah based on the encouraging security situation, particularly the fact that no kidnap-for-ransom cases have been reported in the area since January 2020.
“This will enhance the confidence of international tourists and encourage more visitors to Sabah, especially to experience the many attractive tourism destinations along the State’s east coast,” he said at the ESS Zone Joint Committee meeting at Menara Kinabalu here today.
The meeting was jointly chaired by Hajiji and Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail.
Hajiji said the overall security situation in the ESS Zone was good and remained under control.
“I recently visited six islands in Sabah waters to inspect the security posts and assess the operational readiness of security personnel on the ground,” he said.
He described the absence of any kidnap-for-ransom cases over the past six years as a significant achievement by the Eastern Sabah Security Command (ESSCOM), the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), the Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM), the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (APMM) and all other security agencies.
“I would like to express my highest appreciation to ESSCOM, the PDRM, the ATM, the APMM and all security agencies for their commitment and sacrifices in safeguarding the security of Eastern Sabah’s waters and land,” he said.
Hajiji said the State Government would continue working closely with the Home Affairs Ministry and all relevant agencies to strengthen operational capabilities, enhance assets and preparedness, and improve the welfare of security personnel.
Also present were State Secretary Datuk Zainudin Aman and Home Ministry Secretary-General Datuk Dr Awang Alik Jeman.
