Kidnapping cases for ransom have not been reported in the Eastern Sabah Safety Zone (ESS Zone) since January 15, 2020, according to the Home Minister, Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail. The minister stated this as a significant achievement due to various factors. He noted that although kidnapping threats exist, records show that there have been no kidnap-for-ransom cases in the mentioned period. Saifuddin Nasution emphasized that this success is attributed to the constant patrols by the Eastern Sabah Security Command (Esscom), as well as the presence of motherships and helicopters, which have contributed to ensuring safety and minimizing threats in the area.
In addition to these security efforts, the Ministry of Home Affairs has also taken steps to support the welfare of security personnel’s families in the region. The ministry has acquired 60 apartment units in Lahad Datu, utilizing the RM40 million allocation granted by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim specifically for the benefit of Esscom officers and their families. This initiative is aimed at creating a more conducive working environment for security personnel.
The recent change in the name of the Sabah sea curfew to the ESS Zone movement control order has likewise yielded positive outcomes. Saifuddin Nasution revealed that this renaming has resulted in a promising increase in the number of tourists from Europe and China visiting the area. He believes this development has had a beneficial impact on the growth of the ESS Zone and the Sabah economy.
The Home Minister’s statements were in response to a query by Datuk Seri Dr. Ronald Kiandee (PN-Beluran) regarding his previous announcement that 40 kidnapping cases in Sabah waters had been prevented. Kiandee expressed concerns about the continued threats of piracy, kidnapping, human trafficking, and smuggling in Sabah’s waters, urging the Ministry of Home Affairs to prioritize the safety of the region.
Saifuddin Nasution addressed Kiandee’s concerns by highlighting the extensive efforts made by Esscom. He stated that as of August 31 of this year, approximately 1.7 million physical checks on individuals, vehicles, and boats had been conducted throughout the ESS Zone using both road and sea checkpoints. These efforts have resulted in the arrest of 414 individuals, the confiscation of 139 vehicles and boats, and the deportation of 191 illegal immigrants.
Esscom, which is currently in its tenth year of operation, aims to prevent potential threats, intrusion, and the infiltration of militants. It also supports security and enforcement teams in combating cross-border crimes and illegal immigration. Saifuddin Nasution emphasized that Esscom’s presence facilitates coordinated and organized responses from various government agencies, including the army, police, and maritime enforcement agencies.
To further enhance security and enforcement, under the 12th Malaysia Plan mid-term review rolling plan, additional tactical and high-technology assets have been approved. These include the Malaysian Sea Vessel Tracking System (Swasla) and 30 rigid hull inflatable boat units. Moreover, security posts will be increased, particularly in Manalunan in Kinabatangan and Kuala Maruap in Lahad Datu.
