SANDAKAN: Malaysia's maritime security can only remain strong if it is backed by disciplined enforcement and clean governance, says Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
The Prime Minister said Malaysians must never forget the sacrifices of the country's security forces.
"As a maritime nation, our vast waters are our responsibility. And people are constantly reminded that our economy is strong because this country is peaceful and stable.
"The peace we have is the result of the sacrifices of our security forces. That is why we must always be prepared – with proper equipment discipline and responsibilities carried out with full trust," he said during the Jelajah Wira Madani programme and the 29th anniversary celebration of the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) at its Sandakan office on Saturday (Sept 27).
He said the country remains peaceful but smuggling of goods, weapons, drugs as well as human trafficking and intrusions, has to stop.
"This requires a disciplined force with good governance… leakages, wastage and corruption must be stopped.
"The large sums of money involved are not private funds – they are held in trust of the people," he said.
He added that Sabah's success in attracting tourists from Germany, China and South Korea showed how strong security and good infrastructure could directly benefit the economy.
During the event, Anwar also presented food aid packages to MMEA personnel and their family members.
