TAWAU: The Sabah government remains steadfast in strengthening border security to protect national sovereignty and avoid any recurrence of security breaches like the 2013 Tanduo incursion.
This commitment includes full support for the Eastern Sabah Security Command (Esscom) in monitoring border activities and backing the Immigration Department’s rigorous operations against illegal immigrants.
Assistant Minister to the Chief Minister Datuk Nizam Abu Bakar Titingan said Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor has made border security a top priority since assuming office.
“Sabah’s sovereignty is non-negotiable. We stand firmly behind Esscom and immigration authorities in ensuring only lawful residents remain in our State,” Nizam said to reporters at his Aidilfitri open house in Jalan Banyan Drive, here, on Saturday.
The Apas Assemblyman said security lapses could have serious consequences.
“Vigilance is important. We cannot afford another Tanduo-like security breach,” he said.
In a positive development, Nizam is happy that Kampung Indrasabah in his constituency has been designated as Esscom’s adopted village.
“The selection of this border-facing coastal community demonstrates our security forces’ dedication to safeguarding our nation’s integrity,” he said.
Additionally, he called for security personnel to remain vigilant in their duties and for public cooperation in reporting suspicious activities and village leaders to maintain constant alert against potential threats.
“The people’s partnership with authorities is important in maintaining Sabah’s security,” he said.