Foreign representatives deeply impressed with security, natural beauty of Tawau, Semporna

SEMPORNA, July 26 (Bernama) -- Foreign representatives attending the Home Minister’s briefing and security survey of the Eastern Sabah Security Zone (ESSZone), were deeply impressed by both the stringent security measures and the stunning natural beauty of Tawau and Semporna.

The representatives, when met by Bernama during the two-day programme which began yesterday, expressed their admiration for the efforts of the Eastern Sabah Security Command (ESSCOM) in maintaining security, particularly along the east coast of the state. They hope that these security measures will continue for many years to come.

The Embassy of Finland in Malaysia’s Deputy Head of Mission, Anni Stahle, praised ESSCOM for its outstanding work over the years. She noted that the visit provided valuable insights and assistance from the Home Ministry and ESSCOM regarding security matters.

“I visited Tawau and the islands in Semporna for the first time, and I must say, the islands are among the most beautiful places in the world. This has been an absolutely fascinating trip, allowing us to witness the beauty and security of the area firsthand. I am truly impressed,” she said.

Stahle also mentioned that the information gained from this trip is highly valuable, and will be shared with the embassy, including details about ESSCOM and the region.

The programme aims to provide delegates, from the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Denmark, Japan, Germany, France, Canada, and Finland, with first-hand experience of the safety measures in place along Sabah’s east coast, particularly within the ESSZone.

Meanwhile, Australian High Commission in Malaysia’s Defence Attache, Michael Edwards, commented on the robust security arrangements in the Semporna waters, noting that they provided him and the other representatives with peace of mind to fully appreciate the natural beauty of the area.

“Today we visited Mabul, Kapalai, and Sipadan Islands. The islands are stunning, and the people I encountered were warm and welcoming. This is my first visit to Tawau and the Semporna Islands. I’ve been to several islands in Peninsular Malaysia, such as Pangkor and Perhentian, but none compare to the islands here," he said.

Meanwhile, British High Commission in Malaysia’s Second Secretary (Political), Robert Pepper, said that the trip to Tawau and Semporna provided valuable insights for a more thorough and regular review of the area.

“I had a fantastic and intriguing experience, seeing everything here with my own eyes,” he added.

Meanwhile, Home Minister, Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail, who hosted the programme, emphasised that ensuring security is a top government priority. He expressed confidence that the tourism sector will see improvements as long as security remains consistently high, as demonstrated by ESSCOM.

“In terms of tourism potential, the foreign delegation awarded full marks, highlighting that the visit has been valuable exposure for them, as senior officials from their respective embassies,” said Saifuddin Nasution, who also visited Pulau Mabul, Sipadan, and Kapalai.

--BERNAMA