Malaysia brings foreign ambassadors to Sabah’s east coast to boost security confidence, tourism

KOTA BHARU, Aug 12 — The Malaysian government is actively working to rebuild international trust in the security situation of Sabah’s east coast by inviting foreign ambassadors and representatives to personally assess the area, nearly a decade after the Lahad Datu incident. Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail emphasized the importance of this action, as the event has affected both the local community and the region's tourism potential.

The Eastern Sabah Security Command (ESSCOM), responsible for overseeing security in 10 districts along Sabah’s east coast, is leading the initiative. Saifuddin Nasution highlighted the region's vast tourism potential, which includes its stunning islands, beaches, rivers, and forests. He explained that after nearly 13 years of efforts to enhance security, the government has initiated a program to restore confidence among foreign nations.

Under this program, foreign ambassadors and delegates are provided with a comprehensive three-day, two-night visit to Sabah’s east coast, including an exploration of its natural wonders and security measures. Saifuddin Nasution expressed optimism that this approach would prompt the involved countries to review their travel advisories for their citizens.

He reported that the United States and Japan had already revised their advisories, while China led as the top tourist destination for Sabah’s east coast, followed by European nations, particularly Germany and the United Kingdom, as well as various East Asian countries. A significant rise in tourist arrivals to the area has been observed in the past three years, following the implementation of the program and subsequent travel advisory reviews.

Saifuddin Nasution noted a notable increase in tourist arrivals through various routes, including those connecting Kuala Lumpur-Kota Kinabalu, Kota Kinabalu-Tawau, and direct flights to Tawau.