Masidi confident Putrajaya will secure Sabah borders amid Balabac Strait concerns

KOTA KINABALU, Sept 24 — Sabah Finance Minister Datuk Seri Masidi Manjun expressed confidence that federal authorities in Putrajaya will ensure Sabah's borders remain secure, despite growing concerns over a US-backed Philippine military facility in the Balabac Strait. Speaking at the Sabah Carbon Forum, Masidi stated that border security is under Putrajaya's jurisdiction, and he is confident that the government has taken all necessary measures to protect the region.

When asked if additional security reinforcements would be deployed in Sabah, Masidi assured the public that he believes the government will not leave the state undefended. He urged the public to remain objective and avoid making statements that could lead to unnecessary speculation, emphasizing the need for a measured approach to the geopolitical developments.

The concerns regarding the Philippine military facility's upgrade on Balabac Island stem from the Enhanced Defence Cooperation Agreement, which includes a 3km airstrip. This expansion has heightened security sensitivities in Malaysia, especially considering the Philippines' longstanding claim over Sabah, a claim that Malaysia firmly rejects.

During a meeting on September 11, Masidi declined to disclose specific details, stating that the discussions centered on various matters in the best interest of Sabah and the nation.