New sea base, tech upgrades for Sabah's Op Pasir

New Straits Times

04-08-2025

KUALA LUMPUR: AN operation on the eastern coast of Sabah is undergoing a major transformation by leveraging advanced surveillance technology, real-time intelligence systems and community-based reporting.
Joint Forces Commander Lieutenant-General Datuk Zahani Zainal Abidin said Op Pasir had significantly expanded the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), coastal radar, and closed-circuit television systems to boost domain awareness and detection capabilities in the Eastern Sabah Security Zone (ESS Zone).
"Enhancements to the Coastal Surveillance System would allow for earlier detection of suspicious vessel movements."
These upgrades, he said, formed part of Op Pasir's evolution into a tech-driven, multi-agency defence operation supported by real-time coordination between the military, police and maritime enforcement.
A cornerstone of this technological shift is the introduction of the Multi Purpose Command Platform (MPCP) — a mobile sea base that will replace the ageing Tun Sharifah Rodziah Sea Base.
"The MPCP is a Mobile Forward Operating Base designed to replace the existing PL Tun Sharifah Rodziah.
"This platform is capable of long-duration operations and can be rapidly deployed to hotspot areas," Zahani said.
With capabilities to operate helicopters, interception boats, UAVs and unmanned surface vehicles, the MPCP will serve as a launch base for Quick Reaction Force teams — drastically cutting response time to smuggling attempts, incursions and maritime criminal activity.
"With the deployment of this asset, Op Pasir is expected to be conducted more efficiently and effectively, enhancing operational readiness and territorial control," Zahani said.
COLLABORATIVE EFFORT
First launched 25 years ago, Op Pasir is today a full-spectrum joint operation led by the Joint Forces Headquarters and executed by Joint Forces Command 2.
It involves a full-strength armed forces deployment across the ESS Zone districts of Kudat, Sandakan, Lahad Datu and Semporna.
Troops maintain a round-the-clock presence on 21 islands and 19 land-based security posts, supported by maritime patrols, land-based security sweeps and aerial surveillance conducted by the Royal Malaysian Air Force.
"Through this integrated deployment, Op Pasir has significantly enhanced domain awareness, response time and deterrence against threats such as piracy, smuggling, cross-border intrusions and maritime terrorism in one of Malaysia's most strategically-sensitive regions," Zahani said.
Operational results last year and this year reflect the effectiveness of the approach, with 11 undocumented immigrants detained in Semporna waters and multiple seizures of controlled contraband, particularly petrol and diesel, that were handed over to police for further action.
"These enforcement results highlight the effectiveness of Op Pasir's patrols, thus enhancing security and law enforcement in Malaysia's maritime domain," Zahani said.
Beyond tactical upgrades, Op Pasir has undergone structural reforms to improve inter-agency cooperation and community engagement.
"Op Pasir now operates with a more structured collaboration among the armed forces, police, Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency and the Eastern Sabah Security Command (Esscom)," Zahani said.
"The establishment of joint operations centers and real-time intelligence sharing has enabled faster and more effective responses to threats."
COMMUNITY-BASED APPROACH
Meanwhile, public involvement has been strengthened through programmes like Community Policing and Rakan Maritim (Maritime Friends), empowering local residents to report suspicious activity.
"A community-based approach has become a core element of Op Pasir. Safety education and cooperation with community leaders foster awareness of security risks and promote timely reporting of suspicious activities," Zahani said.
However, he stressed that the operation's impact went well beyond security.
"By maintaining continuous security control over Sabah's maritime and land borders, Op Pasir fosters a stable environment free from intrusions, piracy and cross-border crimes.
"This stability is essential for encouraging both domestic and foreign investments, thereby supporting the sustained economic and social development of local communities."
"The ESS Zone encompasses key economic areas including fisheries zones, commercial ports and strategic project sites.
"Through integrated monitoring and patrols, Op Pasir safeguards these critical assets from sabotage or external threats, ensuring uninterrupted national supply chains and protecting economic interests."
SENSE OF SECURITY
Zahani said a visible and sustained security presence helped enhance public trust and support broader government initiatives.
"The consistent presence of security personnel through Op Pasir demonstrates the government's commitment to the safety of its citizens.
"This effort boosts the sense of security within local communities and reinforces trust in the armed forces and other security agencies."
The broader outcome, he said, was a safer, more confident Sabah that could grow in tandem with Peninsular Malaysia.
"By securing the environment as a prerequisite for development, Op Pasir enables the smooth execution of government projects such as road construction, and improvements in education and healthcare facilities in rural areas."
"The improved security landscape resulting from Op Pasir not only benefits local communities and national development, but also enhances international confidence in East Malaysia.
"This growing trust is reflected in the increased tourism activities across Sabah, with visitors feeling safer to explore the region.
"Op Pasir is not merely a border security operation, but also a catalyst for continued stability and progress in East Malaysia.