Latest news with #EasternSabahSecurityCommand
Borneo Post
20-05-2025
- Borneo Post
International yachts set course for Sabah
Joniston chairing a Sail Malaysia coordination meeting to ensure smooth operations and safety throughout the Sabah segment. KOTA KINABALU (May 20): Kota Belud, known as the Land of the Cowboys of the East, is making its debut as a stopover in this year's Sail Malaysia Passage to the East, offering a fresh perspective for sailors exploring rural charm and cultural depth. Assistant Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister cum Sabah Tourism Board chairman Datuk Joniston Bangkuai said Kota Belud's inclusion is a fitting addition to the rally as the district is known for its strong Bajau heritage, horse riding tradition and growing reputation in community-based tourism. The annual sailing rally, which began in April, will arrive in Sabah this July with over 31 yachts and 70 participants from 15 countries scheduled to explore coastal and inland attractions from July 18 to September 1. New participating countries include Lebanon, Turkey, Kuwait, Tunisia and India, reflecting the growing global interest in Malaysia's sailing route and Sabah's diverse tourism offerings. Joniston, who serves as patron of Sail Malaysia Borneo, said the rally helps promote Sabah to international travellers and strengthens its position as a culture, adventure and nature destination. He added that the inclusion of new countries and destinations like Kota Belud is a promising sign as Sabah builds momentum toward Visit Malaysia Year 2026. Sabah's growing popularity as a yachting destination is also supported by ongoing efforts to improve infrastructure, with several new berthing areas, including in Tuaran, being identified to cater to increasing interest from international sailors Joniston encouraged organisers to enhance collaboration with the Sabah Tourism Board to further promote the Sabah leg as a key highlight of the entire rally. Joniston recently chaired a Sail Malaysia coordination meeting attended by the Eastern Sabah Security Command (ESSCom) and key tourism stakeholders to ensure smooth operations and safety throughout the Sabah segment. Sail Malaysia managing director Sazli Kamal Basha said the rally follows the familiar eastern route starting in Langkawi, with Sabah stops including Kota Kinabalu, Tuaran, Kudat, Lahad Datu, Kunak, Kinabatangan, Sandakan, Tawau and Semporna. He noted that participants will also have the rare opportunity to sail inland along the Kinabatangan River, one of Sabah's most iconic wildlife corridors, known for its rich biodiversity and natural beauty. Sazli said many sailors are drawn to Sabah for its natural beauty, safe harbours and the warm welcome offered by local communities.
Borneo Post
16-05-2025
- Politics
- Borneo Post
ESSCom steps up security for Sabah election
Tun Musa (seventh from left) and Victor (seventh from right) with the ESSCom delegation.-Information Department photo KOTA KINABALU (May 16): The Eastern Sabah Security Command (ESSCom) plans to increase the number of defense control posts in an effort to strengthen security in the area, particularly in Eastern Sabah. Its commander, Datuk Victor Sanjos, stated that security remains the agency's primary focus to ensure the sovereignty and peace of the state are preserved. 'The construction of new posts will be carried out in identified locations that require reinforcement in terms of defense. 'In addition, ESSCom is also enhancing its capabilities with the use of current technology, particularly Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs),' he said after paying a courtesy visit to the Head of State, Tun Musa Aman, today. The visit aimed to introduce ESSCom's top management and provide a briefing on the current security situation in Eastern Sabah. Victor said ESSCom will undergo a rebranding, including a new logo, map, and a change in flag color from maroon to white, to reflect the image of a region that fosters well-being, in line with its motto, 'Together Generating Prosperity.' Additionally, Victor informed that ESSCom, along with other security agencies, will strengthen security controls ahead of the State election to prevent any threats that could jeopardize security. Meanwhile, ESSCom Chief Executive Officer Datuk Jamaluddin Mohd Ali said they have identified eight projects to be implemented under the Madani Adopted Village Initiative. 'The list of projects has been submitted to the Ministry of Finance for approval, including the construction of jetties, road repairs, and school upgrades to improve the well-being of the local community. 'Furthermore, there are also human development projects planned in collaboration with Giat MARA through the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) program, including boat and engine repairs, given that the area is a fishing zone that can be supported to enhance the socioeconomy of the residents,' he explained. Also present were ESSCom Deputy Commander, Brigadier General Mohamad Ismail Kamarudin; Director of the Public Action Division, Georgie Abas; Director of the Management Services Division, Mohd Dzulhairul Shah Dzulkifli; and Director of the Secretariat Services Division, Imelda Godon.
