IMMIGRATION CHECKS AT LABUAN FERRY TERMINALS LIKELY TO BE REVIEWED AMID ECONOMIC CONCERNS

LABUAN, Dec 12 (Bernama) -- The immigration checks implemented at Labuan’s two ferry terminals over the past two years may soon undergo a review following concerns about their impact on the island’s economy, particularly the tourism sector.

Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Dr Zaliha Mustafa said that the issue, raised by both the local and business communities, has been flagged as a barrier to travel and an obstacle to Labuan’s economic recovery.

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“I have received numerous complaints regarding these immigration checks, which I have communicated to the Home Minister.

“We are working towards a discussion with the Sabah Chief Minister to reassess the need for these checks at Labuan’s ferry terminals,” she said during an exclusive interview with Bernama, marking her first year as minister in charge of the federal territories.

Dr Zaliha also revealed that discussions with the Immigration Department have taken place to evaluate the matter.

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“Labuan is already a Federal Territory, and the continuation of immigration checks is being questioned…however, no decision has been made yet,” she added.

The Home Ministry had, in September 2022, instructed stricter immigration controls at the terminals for travellers heading to Sabah, and the checks enforced on Nov 1, 2022.

Former home minister Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainudin explained that the move was prompted by Sabah’s request, citing concerns over unchecked entries into the state via Tanjung Pagar Sipitang, Menumbok and the Jesselton jetties.

However, Labuan PKR chief Simsudin Sidek had argued in December 2022 that such checks contradict the agreement between Sabah and the federal government made during Labuan’s designation as a federal territory.

“Historical records from the Labuan Department of Museums Malaysia show that the agreement allows Sabahans residing in the state and Labuan to travel freely across the borders.

This provision must be respected to ensure the welfare of local communities,” he said.

He said the review of the immigration policy comes amid efforts to address the island’s economic challenges and promote its recovery, especially in tourism.

--BERNAMA