SEMPORNA: The issue of foreigners abusing social visit passes to engage in illegal economic activities in Semporna has been raised and discussed in the Federal Cabinet, said Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Sabah and Sarawak) Datuk Mustapha Sakmud.
He said the Federal Government takes the situation seriously and is actively carrying out enforcement action through integrated operations, particularly on popular tourist islands in the waters off the district.
“Action is being taken on this issue, with operations conducted particularly against business activities on the islands.
“The Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (Motac) has also discussed this issue and will take appropriate action,” he told reporters after an official working visit Monday to assess border control preparedness at Pulau Ligitan, Pulau Sipadan and Pulau Mabul.
He was commenting on a special report series by the Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) published in August, which highlighted how foreign investors were illegally gaining control of the district’s tourism economic chain, posing a serious threat to the security and livelihoods of the local population.
According to the reports, the Eastern Sabah Security Command (Esscom) also exposed how foreigners used illegal partnerships or local proxies in “Ali Baba” arrangements to control services, resorts and tourism facilities, creating opportunities for various criminal activities, including operating scam centres.
Commenting on the same reports, Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said he had directed Esscom to conduct joint enforcement operations with all relevant parties in the area, including local authorities.
Meanwhile, Mustapha said the Public Works Department (JKR), together with the newly-appointed contractor for the construction of the Forward Operating Base (FOB) on Mabul Island here, must ensure that the remaining work is completed on schedule by May 4, 2028.
He said the Mabul Island FOB was intended to enhance security control effectiveness through monitoring and enforcement along the coastal areas and waters of eastern Sabah.
“The objective of today’s visit was to inspect projects related to national security along the border. This matter was discussed at the Malaysia Agreement 1963 Implementation Action Council, and the Sabah and Sarawak Affairs Division was also tasked with monitoring troubled projects.
“This project has experienced delays, but a ‘rescue’ contractor has been appointed. Based on the briefing received, the project is currently progressing well. It is important for strengthening security control and safeguarding national sovereignty,” he said.
The remaining work on the Mabul Island FOB project is being undertaken by Bina Conso Sdn Bhd, which began work on Nov 7, 2025, at a cost of RM40.8 million.
The Mabul Island FOB project was proposed by the Eastern Sabah Security Command (Esscom) in 2016 and approved under the Second Rolling Plan of the 11th Malaysia Plan (2016-2020), with an allocation ceiling of RM52.81 million.
The project, which includes the construction of a jetty, dormitory accommodation blocks, a surau, an administration block, a dining hall and an ammunition store, was originally scheduled for completion in 2024, but the initial contractor withdrew from the project.
During the visit, Mustapha, accompanied by Esscom Commander Datuk Victor Sanjos, also presented food basket contributions from the Prime Minister’s Department to 128 security personnel, including Sabah Parks personnel, who work tirelessly to safeguard the security and natural beauty of the islands in Semporna.
