KOTA KINABALU, Malaysia, July 5, 2025 – For the second consecutive year, the Ministry of Home Affairs (KDN) in collaboration with the Eastern Sabah Security Command (ESSCOM) has invited international diplomats and representatives to the Eastern Sabah Security Zone (ESS Zone) to witness firsthand the region’s security and tourism prospects.
A group of 15 diplomatic and consular officials from 10 countries, including the United States, Australia, Germany, Belgium, Ireland, Canada, China, South Korea, Spain, and New Zealand, participated in a field visit to key tourist destinations such as Omadal Island, Sibuan Island, Bohey Dulang Island, and Mataking Island. The initiative aims to dispel misconceptions and showcase the region’s stability and safety.
Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail described the program as a “crucial and strategic step” to provide an accurate portrayal to the international community that Eastern Sabah’s coastal areas are secure, stable, and safe for travel. “As we are aware, some countries still maintain travel advisories that discourage their citizens from visiting Eastern Sabah. This is why face-to-face engagements are vital to correct perceptions and restore international confidence,” he stated.
Saifuddin emphasized that Eastern Sabah is not only safe but also brimming with potential as a strategic, beautiful, and competitive tourism destination. “This is the core message we want to convey to the world, directly and without reservation,” he added.
The minister expressed gratitude to the Sabah State Government and the Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Environment of Sabah (KePKAS) for their unwavering support in logistics, technical coordination, and strategic commitment, which have been pivotal to the program’s success.
“I believe that once confidence is built, investments and tourism will return. Not because we seek sympathy, but because they have seen the evidence themselves,” Saifuddin remarked.
The initiative comes at a time when Eastern Sabah continues to recover from past security challenges, with efforts focused on enhancing its appeal as a prime tourism destination. The presence of international observers is expected to influence revisions in travel advisories, further boosting the region’s global profile and economic prospects.