KOTA KINABALU: Sabah’s east coast has recorded no kidnapping cases since Jan 15, 2020, boosting foreign tourists’ confidence in the area’s security.
Sabah Police Commissioner Datuk Victor Sanjos said the achievement was the result of continued efforts by previous leaders and close cooperation among various agencies to maintain security.
“We have maintained a record of zero kidnappings since Jan 15, 2020, continuing the efforts of previous leaders.
“Improved security has allowed development along Sabah’s east coast to progress and created more economic opportunities for local communities.
“It has also prompted most foreign countries to lower their travel advisories for the area from levels two and three to level one,” he said after paying a courtesy call on Sabah Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Musa Aman at Istana Seri Kinabalu.
Victor said the lower travel advisory levels had also contributed to an increase in foreign tourist arrivals in Sabah.
Sabah’s east coast is home to some of the region’s best-known diving destinations, including Sipadan Island, which attracts divers from around the world for its rich marine life and coral reefs.
He said the visit was to formally inform Musa of his appointment as Sabah Police Commissioner and introduce Eastern Sabah Security Command (ESSCOM) commander Datuk Abdul Fuad Abdul Malek, who took over the post on Nov 11.
Victor said he was confident Fuad’s extensive experience and knowledge of security matters in Sabah would help maintain security in the ESSCOM area.