No compromise on security on path to SMJ 2.0, says Chief Minister

KOTA KINABALU (March 10): The Sabah government will not compromise on strengthening security as it seeks to drive economic growth under the Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) 2.0 development plan and ensure the well-being of the people, said Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Noor.

He said Sabah has strong potential to emerge as an Eastern Asean Blue Economy hub, given its rich marine biodiversity and strategic location along regional trade routes.

“Under the Sabah Maju Jaya 2.0 framework, the maritime sector and Blue Economy have been identified as new growth drivers for the state through the development of a modern fisheries industry, strengthening of the seafood value chain, expansion of marine tourism, enhancement of port infrastructure, as well as the development of coastal and border towns as new economic hubs.

“However, all these potentials can only be fully realised if the security of the state’s waters is consistently safeguarded.

“Without stable security, investment in the maritime sector, marine tourism and seafood industry will not grow well,” he said during a handing over ceremony of Hari Raya treats to security personnel and healthcare workers at Menara Kinabalu yesterday.

Hajiji said Sabah’s strategic position was reinforced by its coastline of more than 1,400 kilometres.

“In the context of national security, Sabah represents Malaysia’s front line in Borneo and the Sulu Sea, placing the state as Malaysia’s maritime economic gateway in the region.

“In particular, the East Sabah Security Zone (ESSZone) covers 10 key districts namely Kudat, Kota Marudu, Pitas, Beluran, Sandakan, Kinabatangan, Lahad Datu, Kunak, Semporna and Tawau.

“The area is strengthened through the role of the Eastern Sabah Security Command (ESSCom), which coordinates land, sea and air security operations along Sabah’s east coast.

“Therefore, strengthening security is vital not only to protect the people, but also to open opportunities for the development of border towns as new economic gateways for the state through cross-border trade, logistics, ports and marine-based industries,” he said.

Hajiji added that beyond physical security, the well-being of the state also depends on public health security.

“The state government greatly appreciates the role of healthcare workers who remain committed in combating infectious diseases, including Tuberculosis (TB), which continues to pose a public health challenge in the state.

“Early detection efforts, continuous treatment and health awareness programmes carried out by healthcare workers are crucial in protecting communities, particularly in rural and coastal areas,” he said.

He said frontliners carry significant responsibility in ensuring the safety and well-being of society.

Hajiji said the state government continues to value the sacrifices made by security personnel who dedicate their time, effort and lives to ensure the nation’s borders remain secure.

“Therefore, the Hari Raya festive treats presented today serve as a small token of remembrance and appreciation from us.

“I hope this contribution will help brighten the atmosphere for those on duty and serve as encouragement for security personnel and healthcare workers to continue serving with dedication in safeguarding the sovereignty, security and well-being of the people and our beloved nation,” he said.