The United States has lowered its travel advisory for all mainland areas of Sabah, including the east coast, to Level 1: exercise normal precautions.
Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Jafry Ariffin said the state government welcomed the advisory, noting that the classification affirms Sabah as a safe and stable destination for international visitors.
“While the advisory maintains Level 2 for certain islands and maritime areas off the eastern coast, it is important to note that this does not apply to mainland cities, major towns, or key tourism gateways,” Jafry said.
He added that the government respects the sovereign right of any country to issue travel guidance based on its internal assessments.
However, he emphasised that the security situation in Eastern Sabah has significantly improved and remained stable for several years.
“There have been no kidnap-for-ransom incidents in Sabah’s east coast waters since January 2020, when criminal elements linked to Abu Sayyaf were last reported in the region,” Jafry said.
Security operations led by the Eastern Sabah Security Command (ESSCOM) have been consistently strengthened through coordinated patrols, enhanced maritime surveillance, and close cooperation among Malaysian security agencies, he said.
“These measures have proven effective in maintaining peace and protecting both residents and visitors,” he added.
Tourism operators and island resorts in the region operate under strict safety protocols and continuous security monitoring, he said.
“Sabah remains one of Southeast Asia’s leading eco-tourism and high-value travel destinations, with growing international arrivals reflecting sustained global confidence,” he said.
The state government remains fully committed to ensuring that safety and security remain the highest priority, he said.
“We will continue to work closely with federal and state security agencies to uphold Sabah’s reputation as a safe, welcoming, and world-class destination. Sabah is open, secure, and ready to welcome visitors from around the world,” Jafry added.
