Kota Kinabalu: Sabah welcomed the United States’ recognition of the State’s improved security situation, saying the development could further strengthen international confidence in Sabah ahead of Visit Sabah 2027.
State Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Jafry Ariffin said the statement by US Embassy Chargé d’Affaires David Gamble that Sabah is now under a more relaxed travel status was both positive and timely.
“This recognition reflects growing international confidence in Sabah’s safety and stability. It also sends a clear message to the world that Sabah is a safe and stable destination, ready to welcome more international visitors,” he said in a statement, Thursday.
In February, the United States placed most parts of Sabah under Level 1, advising travellers to exercise normal precautions, while the islands and maritime areas off the eastern coast of Sabah remain under Level 2.
The development follows Japan’s decision in June to lower its travel advisory for the coastal areas of Eastern Sabah, stretching from Kudat to Tawau, from Level 2 to Level 1, while several islands in Eastern Sabah improved from Level 3 to Level 2.
Under their respective four-tier travel advisory systems, Japan and the United States classify Level 1 as the lowest risk, while Level 2 indicates a higher level of caution for travellers.
Level 3 advises against travel because of serious safety risks, while Level 4, the highest warning level, urges travellers to avoid the destination entirely or leave immediately due to extreme danger.
Jafry said the easing of the travel advisories reflected the effectiveness of continuous security efforts undertaken by the Eastern Sabah Security Command (Esscom), Royal Malaysia Police, Malaysian Armed Forces, Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency and other relevant agencies.
“These security efforts must continue consistently, as travellers’ confidence is fundamental to the growth of Sabah’s tourism industry,” he said.
He expressed hope that the improved assessments would encourage more countries to reassess their respective travel advisories based on the current security situation and accurate information.
Jafry said the easing of travel advisories could boost tourist arrivals, strengthen confidence among airlines and investors, as well as directly benefit tourism operators and local communities.
“As we move towards Visit Sabah 2027, this growing international confidence will further strengthen our efforts to position Sabah as a preferred, safe and responsible tourism destination in the region.
“Sabah offers remarkable natural treasures, unique wildlife, world-class islands and rich cultural diversity. We warmly welcome visitors from the United States, Japan and around the world to experience Sabah’s beauty and hospitality. Sabah is safe, stable and ready,” he added.
