KOTA KINABALU: The Eastern Sabah Security Command (Esscom) remains a vital component in maintaining security within the Eastern Sabah Security Zone (Esszone), with no kidnapping incidents reported in the area since January 2020.

Esscom chief executive officer Datuk Dr Jamaluddin Mohd Ali attributed this success to the strong collaboration between local communities and security forces.

“The role of Esscom in coordinating all security agencies within the Esszone has proven to be effective in ensuring peace and safety,” he said.

He said this when speaking to reporters after a meeting with Sabah Journalists Association president Dauk Muguntan Vanar and committee members at the latter’s office on Friday (Sept 13).

Jamaluddin also addressed questions about the ongoing relevance of Esscom, saying that the agency continues to play a crucial role in safeguarding the region.

"Esscom remains highly relevant, as reaffirmed by the Honourable Minister of Home Affairs," he said, adding that the decision to focus on the command has been pivotal in preventing criminal activities, especially in areas prone to cross-border threats.

Established on March 7, 2013, Esscom is responsible for overseeing security operations across Esszone, a region covering 1,700km of Sabah’s east coast.

This area includes 10 districts namely Tawau, Semporna, Kunak, Lahad Datu, Kinabatangan, Sandakan, Beluran, Kota Marudu, Kudat and Pitas.

These districts are primarily located along the eastern coast of Sabah and are considered areas prone to cross-border threats, including piracy and terrorism.

Esscom’s responsibilities extend beyond security, as it also coordinates public action programmes to improve the socioeconomic status of the Esszone community.

Its role supports government agendas while ensuring collaboration with multiple agencies, including the police, military, and maritime forces, to secure the region from cross-border terrorism and piracy.

“We look forward to continued cooperation from all parties to maintain the peace we’ve achieved," Jamaluddin added, expressing gratitude to the media for their ongoing support in highlighting Esscom’s initiatives.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/09/14/esscom-remains-vital-in-nation039s-security-no-incidents-since-2020