WEDNESDAY-28TH NOVEMBER 2007-SABAH ISLANDS ARE SAFE, SAYS POLICE CHIEF

Sabah islands are safe, says police chief
KOTA KINABALU:
Security forces are beefing up operations to protect the coastal areas, especially the small islands, following unrests in the neighbouring countries. However, State Police Commissioner Datuk Noor Rashid Ibrahim assured that the situation is under control but they are not taking any chances, as far as the security and safety of the people are concerned. “The Marine Police and General Operations Force are keeping a close watch on our coastal areas, especially at the borders, as we realise the developments at the neighbouring countries. “We can assure that the well known islands such as Sipadan, Mabul, Langkayan and Pandanan, which are located at the borderline, are safe,” he said during a dialogue session between the police and resort and tourism players in the State yesterday. Also present were Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Masidi Manjun, Deputy State Police Commissioner Datuk Abdul Razak Ghani and some 200 tourism players from throughout the State. Noor Rashid, however, advised owners of resorts located close to the borders to be cautious and inform the police immediately if they notice any suspicious character.
“We (the. police and tourism players) must have constant communication with each other to prevent any unwanted incidences from happening,” he said. On another development, Noor Rashid said there were cases reported from island resorts, but most of them involved petty crimes, and secured,” he stressed.
“So far, no major crimes have been reported and we want to make sure it stays that way. That is why we hope the resort and hotel operators would report to us immediately on any changes or development in their areas. “Through such constant communication, we can ensure all resorts and hotels in Sabah are safe and secured,” he stressed.