{
  "id": 19797798,
  "title": "Sabah east coast security boosts tourism confidence",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/13/sabah-east-coast-security-boosts-tourism-confidence",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-11-13T10:56:43.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "New Straits Times",
    "slug": "new-straits-times",
    "url": "https://www.nst.com.my/news/regional/2026/11/1577010/sabah-east-coast-security-boosts-tourism-confidence"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "KOTA KINABALU: No kidnapping cases have been reported in Sabah's east coast since January 15, 2020, bolstering confidence among foreign tourists regarding the area's security. Sabah Police Commissioner Datuk Victor Sanjos stated that this achievement is a result of ongoing efforts by previous leaders and effective collaboration among various agencies to maintain security. The police commissioner emphasized that the continuous improvement in security has facilitated the development of Eastern Sabah and generated economic opportunities for local communities. Furthermore, this enhanced security situation has led most foreign nations to reduce their travel advisories for the region from levels two and three to level one. Victor mentioned this development during a courtesy visit to Sabah Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Musa Aman at Istana Seri Kinabalu. The lower travel advisory levels have also contributed to an increase in foreign tourist arrivals in Sabah. Sabah's east coast is renowned for its exceptional diving destinations, such as Sipadan Island, which entices divers worldwide with its diverse marine life and coral reefs. Victor expressed confidence in Datuk Abdul Fuad Abdul Malek's extensive experience and knowledge of security matters in Sabah, as he took over the post of Eastern Sabah Security Command (ESSCOM) commander on November 11. Victor expressed confidence in Fuad's expertise and familiarity with security matters in Sabah, as he assumed the role of ESSCOM commander on November 11.",
  "summary": "KOTA KINABALU: Sabah’s east coast has recorded no kidnapping cases since Jan 15, 2020, boosting foreign tourists’ confidence in the area’s security.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}