ESS Zone Security Level Must be Effectively Conveyed to Foreign Missions

Sabah has no kidnapping-for-ransom cases over the past six years. The security situation in the east coast remains under control. Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Hajiji Haji Noor revisited the east coast including six islands in Sabah waters to inspect the security posts and assess the operational readiness of security personnel.

“Security is important to enhance the confidence of international tourists and encourage more visitors to Sabah, and especially along the State’s east coast,” Hajiji said at the Eastern Sabah Security Zone (ESS Zone) Joint Committee meeting on 6 August 2026 at Menara Kinabalu.

“This is important so that countries can reassess and subsequently lower their travel advisories for Eastern Sabah.” Hajiji and Datuk Seri Panglima Saifuddin Nasution Ismail, Minister of Home Affairs, co-chaired the meeting.

The Chief Minister said the State Government would continue to work closely with the Ministry of Home Affairs, Eastern Sabah Security Command (ESSCOM), the Royal Malaysia Police (Polis Di Raja Malaysia or PDRM), the Malaysian Armed Forces (Angatan Tentera Malaysia or ATM), the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (Agensi Penguatkuasaan Maritim Malaysia or APMM), and all relevant agencies to strengthen operational capabilities, enhance assets and preparedness, and improve the welfare of security personnel.