Security enhanced: Esscom’s presence allows all government agencies to take a coordinated and organised response, says Saifuddin.
NO case of kidnap for ransom was reported in the Eastern Sabah Safety Zone (ESS Zone) since 2020, the Dewan Rakyat was told.
Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said this is a significant achievement due to various reasons.
“The Eastern Sabah Security Command (Esscom) patrols the area, alongside the presence of motherships and helicopters which minimises safety threats.
“The threats are there but since Jan 15, 2020, kidnap for ransom cases is zero,” he said in Parliament yesterday.
Saifuddin said the ministry also acquired 60 apartment units in Lahad Datu through the RM40mil allocated to ensure the welfare of Esscom personnel and their families.
“This allows them to work in a more conducive environment,” he added.
He said the renaming of the dusk-to-dawn Sabah sea curfew to the ESS Zone Movement Control Order also saw a promising increase in tourists from Europe and China.
“This is very positive towards the development of the ESS Zone and Sabah economy,” he said in a respond to Datuk Seri Dr Ronald Kiandee (PN-Beluran), who commented on Saifuddin’s recent statement that 40 kidnap cases in Sabah waters were thwarted.
“Sabah is still exposed to piracy, kidnapping, human trafficking and smuggling. We hope the Home Ministry will continue prioritising the safety of Sabah’s waters,” he urged.
Earlier, Kiandee had asked about Esscom’s current status and the Home Ministry’s efforts in improving existing assets and enforcement measures in tackling border security issues.
To this, Saifuddin said as of August this year, some 1.7 million physical checks have been carried out on the people, vehicles and boats at both the road and sea checkpoints within the zone.
“Of the number, 414 people were arrested, 139 vehicles and boats confiscated, and 191 illegal immigrants deported,” he added.
He said Esscom, which has entered its 10th year, is aimed at preventing any potential threats and intrusion, among others.
“It also helps security and enforcement teams in tackling cross-border crimes and the entry of illegal immigrants.
“Esscom’s presence allows all government agencies to take a coordinated and organised response,” he added.
Saifuddin said the 12th Malaysia Plan mid-term review rolling plan had approved additional tactical and high-technology assets, which include the Malaysian Sea Vessel Tracking System and 30 rigid hull inflatable boat units.
“Security posts will also be increased especially along Manalunan in Kinabatangan and Kuala Maruap in Lahad Datu,” he added.
