TAWAU, July 26 – Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail warmly welcomed 10 foreign representatives, who accepted an invitation to participate in the Home Minister’s briefing and security survey programme at the Eastern Sabah Security Zone (ESSZone).
He said that the two-day programme aims to provide delegates, from the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Denmark, Japan, Germany, France, Canada, and Finland, with a first-hand experience of the safety measures in place along Sabah’s east coast, particularly within the ESSZone.
“I hope that this visit will enhance your understanding of the safety and security situation in the ESSZone. We will be visiting Mabul Island, Sipadan Island, and Kapalai Island (in Semporna), and I trust that this initiative will contribute to the prosperity of not only the ESSZone, but Sabah as a whole,” Saifuddin Nasution said in his welcoming speech.
He also expressed hope that, through this programme, the representatives would not only witness the region’s safety, but also appreciate its breathtaking scenery, taking back positive impressions to their home countries, and sharing the beauty of Sabah with their people.
Saifuddin Nasution also highlighted Sabah’s strategic position, which poses potential security concerns, such as invasion, kidnapping, piracy, smuggling, and human trafficking. However, he expressed full confidence in the Eastern Sabah Security Command (ESSCOM) to effectively address and manage these issues.
“We have recorded zero kidnapping incidents since Jan 15, 2020. On behalf of ESSCOM, we warmly encourage and invite outsiders to visit the Sabah east coast. Rest assured, security matters are our utmost priority,” he added.
Additionally, he noted that, following the COVID-19 pandemic, the tourism sector on the Sabah east coast has experienced significant growth, with an increasing number of tourists, particularly from China, visiting the region.
