Sabah Chief Minister Mohd Shafie Apdal today called for security measures in the state, especially in the Eastern Sabah Security Zone (Esszone), to be stepped up.

Shafie said security must be at the best possible level despite various restrictions, such as limited manpower and funds.

He was speaking to reporters after the Eastern Sabah Security Command (Esscom) briefed all Sabah assemblypersons on the security measures in force in the state, especially on the east coast.

“At the briefing, I urged all the authorities, particularly Esscom, to strive to step up security control despite the limitations,” he said.

The three deputy chief ministers, Wilfred Madius Tangau, Jaujan Sambakong and Christina Liew, also attended the briefing. Also present was Esscom commander Hazani Ghazali.

Replying to a question, Shafie said the ban on the use of pump boats in Sabah waters, especially by foreigners, remains in force.

The ban was enforced in April 2016 in an effort to tighten security in the waters of the Esszone.

- Bernama