KOTA KINABALU: The decision by Japan’s Foreign Ministry to lower its travel advisory levels for parts of Eastern Sabah is a clear and undeniable recognition that the state is safe, stable, and ready to welcome global tourists, says Datuk Jafry Ariffin.
The Sabah Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister said the positive development reflects the continuous improvements in the state's security situation and the collective enforcement efforts undertaken over the years.
He stressed that the travel advisory downgrade is backed by real and measurable improvements on the ground, including a record of zero kidnapping-for-ransom incidents since 2020 and stronger coordination among security enforcement agencies.
"Sabah welcomes visitors from all walks of life and from every nation, with confidence and pride. To travellers around the world, I wish to emphasise that Sabah remains one of the most beautiful, diverse, and increasingly secure destinations in the region," he said in a statement here on Tuesday (June 16).
Expressing appreciation to international partners, including Japan, for updating their advisories based on current ground realities, Jafry also urged airline partners to review and enhance flight connectivity to the state.
Jafry noted that increased flight frequencies and new routes will be crucial in anticipating the expected rise in tourist arrivals, ensuring better accessibility, and supporting the growth of the local tourism industry as Sabah intensifies preparations for the landmark Visit Sabah Year 2027.
"We will not be complacent. The Sabah government will continue to strengthen security, protect our people, and safeguard the tourism industry," Jafry added.
A Japanese travel-related outlet cited that Japan’s Foreign Ministry had lowered its travel advisory level for islands off eastern Sabah, excluding Banggi Island, Balambangan Island and several others, from Level 3, which advises against all travel, to Level 2, which advises against non-essential travel.
Meanwhile, the advisory for coastal areas from Kudat to Tawau, including Banggi and Balambangan islands, was lowered from Level 2 to Level 1, under which travellers are advised to exercise caution.
The advisory was raised in July 2014 following a series of kidnapping-for-ransom incidents involving foreigners, including threats linked to the Abu Sayyaf Group in the southern Philippines. – Bernama
