By WU VUIDE
LAHAD DATU: Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor said security in the Eastern Sabah Security Zone (ESSZone) will be strengthened through the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to ensure the stability of the state’s economic growth.
He said the State Government will modernise its security assets, including the use of drones, radar and big data analysis, to ensure comprehensive monitoring and faster response to threats.
“We want security agencies to strengthen the use of AI in operations so that our security system is not only physically strong but also digitally resilient,” he said during the SMJ Roadshow Programme, held in conjunction with his Security Inspection Visit to the ESSZone at Dewan Perdana.
Hajiji said security is a key prerequisite for attracting investor confidence to Sabah, adding that without it, economic activities would be hampered and the well-being of the people affected.
He said the maritime sector and blue economy have been identified as new growth drivers, encompassing the modern fisheries industry, marine tourism, and the development of coastal and border towns.
However, he said this potential can only be fully realised if the security of the state’s waters continues to be strengthened without compromise.
“Sabah holds a strategic position with a coastline stretching over 1,400 kilometres and serves as the nation’s frontline in Borneo and the Sulu Sea,” he said.
In the context of Lahad Datu, he said the district has significant economic potential, particularly in the plantation, fisheries, tourism and downstream industries.
“However, all these can only be fully realised if the environment remains safe and stable. Investors will only come if they are confident that the security of our waters is guaranteed,” he said.
Hajiji said the responsibility of maintaining security does not rest solely with security forces, but requires cooperation from all parties, including local communities.
He urged the people, especially those in the ESSZone, to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities.
“The role of the community is very important as a strategic partner to the security forces in ensuring peace and security are preserved,” he said.
Meanwhile, he said the welfare of security personnel will continue to be safeguarded through cooperation between the State and Federal Governments, including in terms of facilities, housing and logistics.
He said synergy among all parties will be strengthened to ensure the ESSZone remains peaceful and under control.
On the Security Inspection Visit programme, Hajiji said it serves as a platform to assess existing strengths and weaknesses before formulating more effective measures to enhance state security.
Hajiji visits one of the ethnic exhibition booths.
