KOTA KINABALU: The Home Ministry’s call to expand the role of the Royal Malaysia Police’s (PDRM) tourism unit to Sabah’s east coast tourist attraction is much welcomed.
Assistant Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Joniston Bangkuai said the initiative, announced during a recent diplomatic visit to Sabah’s east coast led by Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail, is timely and essential in further strengthening tourist confidence in the region’s safety.
“Having a more visible and active tourism police presence, especially in key areas like the east coast, will go a long way in reassuring international visitors, particularly from China, South Korea, and Japan, which are among our top tourist markets,” he said.
The Sabah Tourism Board chairman also noted that although the police tourism unit exists, it has yet to be fully activated or felt in parts of Sabah where it could have the most impact.
“We welcome the Home Minister’s idea and look forward to discussions between the Home Ministry and the state’s Tourism, Culture and Environment Ministry on how best to activate and position this unit in tourist hotspots such as Semporna, Lahad Datu, and Sandakan,” he told reporters after a security briefing and engagement with international delegates on Saturday (July 5).
The delegates visited four islands - Omadal, Sibuan, Bohey Dulang and Mataking - all off Semporna.
Bangkuai added that the tourism police could play a vital role not only in providing security, but also in offering support services to tourists, especially those unfamiliar with local procedures and languages.
The diplomatic visit, which brought together ambassadors and diplomats from several foreign missions in Malaysia, was part of ongoing efforts to improve global perception of Sabah’s east coast, an area still affected by outdated travel advisories.
“This visit carries great meaning for us in Sabah. It gave the diplomats the chance to see firsthand the high level of security in place and our commitment to maintaining peace and safety.
“There have been no kidnapping incidents or similar threats since 2020. This kind of direct exposure helps embassies better understand the current situation, and hopefully, update their travel advisories accordingly,” Bangkuai said.
Spanish Ambassador to Malaysia José Luis Pardo Cuerdo, who was visiting Semporna for the first time, was visibly impressed by the region’s natural beauty and vibrant tourism industry.
“It gave us the opportunity to witness firsthand the amazing attractions, like the diving spots, the beaches, and the welcoming people. Nearly 5,000 Spaniards visited Sabah last year, and now I can see why,” he said.
He also praised the efforts taken by local authorities and security forces to ensure the safety of tourists on the east coast.
“I was deeply impressed by the coordination between the tourism authorities and the security agencies. As a visitor, I felt completely safe throughout my time here,” he said.
He also expressed hope that more Spanish tourists would consider Sabah as a holiday destination, particularly with the increasing focus on eco and adventure tourism.
“There is real potential here to attract more Spanish travellers, especially younger tourists who are looking for nature, authenticity, and off-the-beaten-path experiences,” he added.
US Ambassador to Malaysia Edgard Kagan echoed similar sentiments. Having served in Malaysia between 2014 and 2017, Kagan said he could clearly see the positive transformation in Semporna and surrounding areas.
“It is really impressive to see how much Semporna has developed, from the town itself to offshore tourism infrastructure. The improvement in security and visitor confidence is undeniable,” he said.
He added that the United States would carefully consider the latest observations and information from the visit when reviewing its own travel advice.
The delegation, which received briefings from the Eastern Sabah Security Command (Esscom) and other agencies, represents a crucial step in repositioning Sabah’s east coast as not only safe, but also ripe with potential for sustainable tourism and investment.
