Hajiji interacting with security forces during a visit to the Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM) and General Operations Force (PGA) posts at Pulau Langkayan, Sandakan, today.
SANDAKAN: The State Government will study a proposal to revive barter trade between Sabah and the southern Philippines.
Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Hajiji Haji Noor said although numerous proposals had been received, a comprehensive assessment must be carried out before any decision is made.
He stressed that all aspects would be considered, particularly security implications and the potential economic benefits to traders and the State.
“We will study this as many parties have proposed it. All aspects will be taken into account, especially security and its benefits to our economy.
“The matter will be discussed further at meetings of the National Security Council (MKN) and the State Development Action Council,” he said.
Hajiji was speaking to reporters after a working visit to several islands housing national security posts in Sandakan waters today.
The visit was part of his Security Inspection Programme to the Eastern Sabah Safety Zone (ESSZONE).
Among those accompanying him were Sabah Police Commissioner Datuk Jauteh Dikun and Eastern Sabah Security Command (ESSCOM) Commander Datuk Victor Sanjos, along with several State and Federal leaders.
The delegation visited Pulau Bakungan Kecil, Pulau Selingan and Pulau Langkayan.
Hajiji said the programme aimed to assess conditions on the islands, which host enforcement personnel from Sabah Parks and security forces.
It also allowed him to observe first-hand the state of security posts in Sandakan waters.
“From this inspection, I am satisfied that the preparedness of our security forces is at a high level, with facilities at control posts in good condition and further improvements already carried out.
“I have raised these needs with the Prime Minister and a number of assets have been approved, although more are still required.
“This is crucial to enable our forces to effectively monitor our waters, especially with advanced assets capable of detecting any intrusion,” he said.
He also expressed confidence that strong security in Sabah’s east coast waters would continue to support economic activities, particularly tourism.
“It has been a long time since any incident was reported in our waters, which is encouraging for tourism.
“When security is assured, more tourists are drawn to visit, and the industry will continue to grow.
“Pulau Sipadan, for example, remains a world-renowned diving destination, so it is vital that we maintain security to protect this valuable tourism asset,” he said.
