STRENGTHENING security assets and surveillance capabilities remains a priority for Sabah as the state continues to safeguard its east coast waters, Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor said.
Speaking after a working visit to several strategic islands off Sandakan, Tuesday, Hajiji said the programme was part of his role as chairman of the State Security Committee to assess conditions on the ground and the readiness of enforcement personnel stationed in the area.
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He said the visit, which covered Pulau Selingan, Pulau Bakungan Kecil and Pulau Langkayan, allowed him and his delegation to observe first-hand the condition of security posts as well as the deployment of personnel from the police and armed forces.
“I see that everything is in good condition. Facilities have already been upgraded. I have raised this matter with the Federal Government and the Prime Minister, and I was informed that many facilities and assets have been allocated, although much more is still needed,” he said.
Hajiji said the improvements reflect ongoing efforts by both the state and federal governments to strengthen Sabah’s security framework, particularly in the east coast waters which require continuous monitoring.
He stressed that further enhancements, especially in advanced surveillance assets, are necessary given the vast maritime area that needs to be secured.
“This is very important for our security forces to monitor our waters here. We must have the strength and also advanced assets that can detect those who may attempt to enter our state or our country,” he said.
He added that consistent monitoring and preparedness are key to maintaining stability, noting that the absence of recent security incidents indicates that current enforcement strategies are effective.
Sabah Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Jafry Ariffin said security improvements have helped restore confidence among visitors, particularly in the east coast’s island destinations.
He noted that the areas visited are not only strategic from a security standpoint but also important tourism sites, where safety and infrastructure play a direct role in attracting visitors.
Jafry said recent improvements in travel advisory ratings, including the United States lowering Sabah’s status from Level 2 to Level 1, reflect growing confidence in the state as a safe destination.
“This is a positive sign that our tourism sector can continue to grow and be strengthened, especially in areas along the east coast,” he said.
Meanwhile, Eastern Sabah Security Command commander Datuk Victor Sanjos said enforcement agencies continue to work in close coordination to safeguard Sabah’s waters.
“Security forces and all agencies are working hand in hand to ensure our waters remain secure. This allows development activities, especially tourism, to continue and support operators in Sandakan,” he said.
Victor said Esscom oversees monitoring, intelligence gathering and enforcement across Sabah’s maritime borders, with ongoing operations targeting smuggling and subsidy leakages.
He added that while cross-border crime still occurs, it is less active than before, duei to sustained enforcement efforts.
He also urged communities in the Eastern Sabah Safety Zone to support authorities by sharing information, describing them as an important line of defence in maintaining security.
The inspection programme will continue with visits to land-based areas across Sandakan, Lahad Datu, Semporna and Tawau to assess preparedness along the east coast.
