Sabah sea curfew renamed ESS Zone MCO, Tawau now exempted

KUALA LUMPUR: The Eastern Sabah Safety Zone (ESS Zone) Movement Control Order will come into effect once the current Sabah sea curfew expires at 6pm on Tuesday (Oct 17).

Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Razarudin Husain said this was decided following the latest security assessment by the National Security Council, Home Ministry and Sabah government.

He said the new order covers the waters of Lahad Datu, Kunak, Semporna, Sandakan, Kinabatangan and Beluran.

“Tawau, which was previously included, has now been taken off the list as statistics show a low threat level and satisfactory security control,” he said in a statement on Monday (Oct 16).

He explained that the previous curfew was implemented on July 16, 2014, to deal with the threat of armed incursions by Sulu militants and kidnap-for-ransom groups.

“Considering security needs, the curfew was subsequently expanded to cover the waters of Tawau, Kinabatangan and Beluran.

“Effective Tuesday at 6pm, The ESS Zone Sabah Movement Control Order No. 1 will be enforced to continue from the Sabah sea curfew No. 220 which expires that same day,” he said.

Razarudin said the order was necessary to ensure that Sabah's eastern waters are not invaded or threatened.

“Its implementation will guarantee the safety and well-being of the people in the ESS Zone area.

“The Royal Malaysia Police gives its assurance that the level of security in Sabah remains under control, and it will ensure that all measures are taken to combat any cross-border crime, kidnapping or smuggling incidents,” he added.