We fully appreciate and understand the concerns and questions asked on the security in Sabah and whether it is safe to visit. We wish to assure that it is SAFE to visit Sabah.

The two incidents that happened in Sabah, one in April 23, 2000 on the island of Sipadan and a second incident on the Pandanan Island two-weeks ago on September 10, 2000 were very unfortunate. The lone Pandanan Semporna Island Resort consisting of five simple wooden-chalets and situated about one-hour by speedboat from the coastal town of Semporna was at the time of the incident, totally without security measures.

The Malaysian Government has since then, brought security presence to these islands, coastal towns and areas.

Since the incidents, the Federal Government have stationed armed police security forces in all the islands with resorts, throughout Sabah – including at Sipadan, Pandanan, Mataking, Mabul, Kapalai, Mantanani, Langkayan, Pulau Tiga, Selingan, Manukan, Sapi and Layang-Layang. In addition, security presence has been greatly increased with the deployment of the military, the navy, additional patrol vessels, air-force patrol planes and helicopters. The coastal town of Semporna now has three army battalions. The Government is fully committed to provide safety and security in Sabah and Malaysia.

Travel in Sabah is like in any country in Asia. It is safe and is normal. We continue to have many foreign visitors on business and holiday. Our hotels and resorts are busy. It is business as usual.

For Further Information,

Contact:

Irene Benggon Charuruks