KOTA KINABALU: Sabah has ordered a full investigation into the Semporna resort where a female tourist from China was allegedly molested and assaulted inside her room by an intruder early last Saturday (Sept 19).
State Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Jafry Ariffin said he instructed tourism authorities and enforcement agencies to investigate the security lapses that led to the incident and the resort's licensing status.
“I have instructed the relevant tourism authorities to immediately look into the accommodation concerned, including its licensing status, safety and security measures.
“They will coordinate with the relevant enforcement agencies where necessary,” he said in a statement on Monday.
Jafry warned that tourism operators, including accommodation providers, must ensure that their premises provide a safe and secure environment for guests and address weaknesses that arise.
“As we move towards Visit Sabah 2027, we will not compromise on visitor safety. Sabah must continue to be a destination where visitors feel safe, respected and welcomed,” he said.
He also welcomed the police’s swift arrest of the 18-year-old suspect linked to the incident.
“I view the reported incident involving a Chinese tourist at a resort in Semporna with utmost seriousness. The safety and security of every visitor to Sabah must remain our highest priority,” Jafry added.
On Sunday, Semporna OCPD Supt Tan Hiap Wah said a teenage suspect was arrested in connection with the alleged molest and assault of a 25-year-old tourist from China in a room at a resort on Jalan Kamiri at 3am on Saturday.
He said initial investigations found that the woman was sleeping alone when she realised an unknown man was inside her room.
She managed to flee the suspect when during the assault and hid in nearby bushes until a resort worker found her the next morning. She suffered injuries during the incident.
The case is being investigated under Sections 448 and 354 of the Penal Code for house trespass and assault or use of criminal force with intent to outrage a person's modesty.
