General : Sabah Sovereignty, Security Remain Safeguarded Amid Increased Military Activity Near Border - Adly

Malaysia is bolstering its military presence and surveillance in northern Sabah as heightened US military activities and Philippine defense installations on Balabac Island draw attention, a Dewan Rakyat hearing revealed. Deputy Defence Minister Adly Zahari confirmed the armed forces would continue bolstering security readiness in Kudat, Pulau Banggi, and Pulau Balambangan through reinforced border security, better intelligence, and heightened aerial and maritime surveillance.

This includes improving ISR capabilities and maritime domain awareness via radar systems, drones, and other monitoring assets. The Defence Ministry keeps a close eye on regional defense advancements, including Philippine facilities and US military actions near Sabah. Adly emphasized Malaysia's respect for sovereignty and right to choose defense partnerships while maintaining a strong defense to counteract regional security shifts.

The government plans to bolster Sabah's defense readiness through upgraded combat and support aircraft, command and control systems, and operational deployment facilities. Malaysia also adopts a comprehensive approach, involving the police, Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency, Eastern Sabah Security Command, National Security Council, and the Sabah government.

Defense collaboration with friendly nations will be expanded via intelligence-sharing, joint training, and military exercises. Malaysia won't engage in an arms race but prioritizes national defense to be prepared for regional developments. Adly addressed concerns about cross-border movements between Sabah and southern Philippines, highlighting non-conventional threats like smuggling and human trafficking, which are continuously assessed through joint efforts among defense and security agencies.