The Semporna Maritime Zone complex, the new operations and patrol base for the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency.
SEMPORNA: A new RM65.28mil maritime base in Semporna has been completed to strengthen security and fast-response operations along Sabah’s east coast, a corridor long vulnerable to cross-border threats.
Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said the facility will significantly enhance Malaysia’s readiness at sea.
“This complex will serve as the main operations and patrol centre for the Semporna Maritime Zone, and a coordination hub for joint security and training with ESSCom, the police and navy,” he said.
He said this during the partial project handover ceremony for the Semporna Maritime Zone complex, here, on Sunday (Nov 2).
The complex includes an administration block, logistics facilities, an operational jetty and marina, helipad, staff quarters, parade ground and sports amenities.
Saifuddin said the base will support rapid deployment and a stronger maritime presence to deter smuggling, illegal entry and cross-border crime.
Public Works Department representative Datuk Ir. Jasmi Wahab hands over the symbolic key to Home Ministry Development Division Secretary Ahmad Fuad Apandi, witnessed by Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution (centre) and Deputy Works Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Maslan.
“It allows faster action against any security threats from our waters. This is a strategic location under full control of the maritime force and it will raise morale among our personnel,” he said.
He said Sabah remains a priority in national defence planning, noting that four new patrol helicopters and a mothership are being prepared for APMM, with another pending approval.
A vessel donated by the United States Coast Guard will also be stationed in Sabah.
“Helicopters are an important component. The helipad here shows that placing strategic air assets in Sabah is in our plans,” he said.
Saifuddin also referred to Malaysia’s agreement with Indonesia to open new border entry points with Kalimantan, supported by a RM1bil allocation for security and infrastructure.
Deputy Works Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Maslan, who was also present, said the ministry would continue supporting Home Ministry infrastructure projects in Sabah.
“We want projects completed ahead of time, not always seeking extension of time. Costs must be reasonable and quality must be guaranteed,” he said.
Earlier today, Saifuddin officiated the groundbreaking for the new Kalabakan district police headquarters (IPD) and staff quarters, a project aimed at further strengthening border security and policing capabilities in the area.
He said the development supports Malaysia’s commitment to secure the Sabah–Kalimantan frontier as Indonesia relocates its capital to Nusantara.
The project will be implemented in two phases and is scheduled to run from January 2026 until 2030, including a district police headquarters, police station and 110 quarters for personnel.
