Developing Semporna’s Tourism and Blue Economy Potentials

Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Hajiji Haji Noor said that Semporna District still has room for more potentials in the future including at its world-renowned tourist destinations, and especially Sipadan Island, and the surrounding islands. The Chief Minister shared his thoughts during the “Security Inspection Visit to the Eastern Sabah Security Zone (ESS Zone),” which began in Sandakan on 5 May 2026, continued to Lahad Datu on 6 May 2026 and concluded in Semporna on 7 May 2026. Hajij’s visits included visits to the cluster of islands around Semporna, Sandakan and Lahad Datu to inspect the level of security at coastal spots, to see other development in the three districts and to witness a groundbreaking ceremony for a security post on Ligitan Island.

Hajiji said that Semporna possesses ideal fisheries and marine activity potentials that can be further developed through the exploration of the blue economy sector. “Semporna is strong in tourism, but its fisheries and marine resources are also truly outstanding,” Hajiji said. “We must further improve the facilities and explore blue economy resources over the next five years and transform them into a robust economic activity.” Semporna’s tourism sector – including neighbours Lahad Datu and Sandakan , can become an invaluable treasure not only for Sabah, but for Malaysia as a whole, Hajiji added.