KOTA KINABALU: The federal government has been urged to prioritise enhancing security in the Eastern Sabah Security Zone (Esszone) in the upcoming Budget 2025.
Eastern Sabah Security Command (Esscom) commander Datuk Victor Sanjos said that security is vital to safeguarding the nation's sovereignty and that more focus should be directed towards bolstering security measures in the region.
He expressed hope for increased funding to purchase new assets, build additional guard posts at strategic locations and implement other safety-enhancing measures.
“These efforts are essential for achieving Esscom's two main missions: preventing intrusions and eliminating kidnap-for-ransom incidents,” Sanjos told Bernama on Sunday (Oct 13).
He added that continued efforts to protect the Esszone would ensure the sustainability and growth of socio-economic activities in the region.
The Esszone covers 10 districts: Kudat, Kota Marudu, Pitas, Beluran, Sandakan, Kinabatangan, Lahad Datu, Kunak, Semporna, and Tawau.
In addition to security initiatives, Sanjos hopes that more attention will be given to the welfare of Esscom personnel, particularly those on the frontlines and in ground operations.
“Caring for the welfare of our security forces is part of the Defence Ministry’s agenda and responsibility,” Sanjos added.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is scheduled to present Budget 2025 in Parliament on Oct 18.
