SEMPORNA: A crucial Forward Operating Base (FOB) on Sabah’s east coast must be expedited without further delays to its scheduled May 4, 2028 completion date, says Datuk Mustapha Sakmud.
The Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Sabah and Sarawak) urged the Public Works Department (JKR), the appointed contractor and other agencies involved to give serious attention to completing the defence project vital to the operations of security forces.
"We hope that the JKR, the appointed contractor and the relevant agencies will complete this base, as it is important as a benchmark for any future projects requiring a forward operating base, especially in the country's border areas,” he told reporters after visiting the islands of Ligitan, Sipadan and Mabul to inspect the implementation of national security-related projects in the area,
Mustapha said the Mabul Island forward base project had previously experienced delays, but the appointment of a new contractor had enabled work to continue, with current progress showing positive developments.
He added that the project's progress is also being monitored through efforts related to the implementation of the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63), particularly to ensure delayed security projects are completed
Mustapha stressed that the construction of the forward base was crucial for security preparedness in defending the nation's sovereignty against any threats.
"We need to be prepared, particularly in terms of assets, to safeguard the nation's security and sovereignty from any unwanted threats," he said.
According to Mustapha, the forward base project on Ligitan Island has been completed, while the project on Sipadan Island is progressing without any issues.
During the visit, Mustapha also distributed contributions from the Prime Minister's Department to 128 personnel and officers serving in the area.
The recipients comprised members of the armed forces, the police’s General Operations Force, marine police, as well as staff of Sabah Parks, who help safeguard security and preserve the natural beauty of the islands.
