Datuk Victor Sanjos, the commander of the Eastern Sabah Security Command (Esscom), has welcomed foreign missions to visit the ESS Zone to witness the safety for themselves. He stated that they can guarantee the safety of the zone and hopes that this will lead to an update in travel advisories from their countries.
Following improved security in the area, the United Kingdom lifted its travel advisory on Kudat, Sabah on Nov 30. Esscom was established a decade ago after the Lahad Datu incursion in early 2013, during which gunmen claimed to be from the Sulu Sultanate and caused the deaths of 70 people. It is made up of several agencies, including the Royal Malaysia Police, the Armed Forces, and the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA).
The ESS Zone includes the districts of Kudat, Pitas, Kota Marudu, Beluran, Kinabatangan, Sandakan, Lahad Datu, Kunak, Semporna, and Tawau. Sanjos mentioned that the UK’s decision is a vote of confidence for Esscom’s efforts in improving safety in the region, as well as the well-being of the community and local economy, particularly in the tourism sector.
