Navy assures Sabahans of ‘safe’ coasts

For the last four months, Sabah has been free of piracy and terrorist reports, according to the Royal Malaysian Navy, and as such is 'safe'

KOTA KINABALU: The waters surrounding Sabah are now safe and free from piracy or terrorist attacks, according to the Royal Malaysian Navy (TLDM) Regional Two Commander First Admiral Anuwi Hassan.

He said in the first four months of this year alone there was no report about any threats from any neighbouring or foreign countries.

“Although Sabah is safe from any threats, we will continue to deploy our men to strategic locations which we believe may be used by pirates or terrorist for their activities.

“We are also proud of the support and cooperation from other agencies in helping to keep our country safe,” he said.

Anuwi was speaking to the press during the 77th Navy Day celebration that was held at the Sepanggar Naval Base here on Wednesday.

Anuwi’s assurance is warming coming on the heel of a spate of recent attacks on Sabahans.

Fishermen, especially on the east coast of the state where Sabah shares a maritime border with the Philippines, have frequently complained of acts of piracy and robberies at sea for several years now.

Early last year, two businessmen operating a business on an island were taken hostage by whom the government authorities labelled as ‘bandits’ but security experts said could be linked to terrorist activities in the Southern Philippines.

They were released at the end of last year.

Anuwi also said the TLDM will receive six Littoral Combatant Ships and two training ships under the 10th Malaysian Plan.

He said the vessels would be built in the country and are expected to be ready by 2013.

“Some of the ships will be based here at the Sepanggar Naval Based,” he said, adding that more assets are needed to strengthen and protect the country from any threats or conflicts.