SANDAKAN: Aug 10, 2026 – A total of RM723 million has been invested over a 13-year period to bolster security in the Eastern Sabah Security Zone (ESS Zone), thereby enhancing confidence in Sabah’s east coast.
Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said the investment, channeled through the Ministry of Home Affairs (KDN), ESSCOM and other security agencies, has also supported the tourism sector, conservation efforts, sustainable development and economic growth.
“The Malaysian government has invested RM723 million over 13 years to strengthen security within the ESS Zone through the Ministry of Home Affairs (KDN), ESSCOM and other security agencies.
“Alhamdulillah, we are now in a much better position,” he said in his speech at the Dinner Ceremony of the Briefing and Security Survey Programme with Foreign Representatives to the ESS Zone 2026, held here on Saturday.
He said the growing confidence is also reflected in the number of Japanese visitors, which increased from 6,000 to 9,000 in the following year.
“Security creates confidence. Confidence enables conservation. Conservation supports sustainable development, and sustainable development generates economic growth,” he explained.
Saifuddin said that since January 2020, no kidnapping-for-ransom cases have been reported.
Malaysia currently ranks 12th out of 165 countries in the Global Peace Index and is targeting a position among the top 10 by the 13th Malaysia Plan.
Source: JAPEN
