The rigid hull fender boats.
LAHAD DATU: The handover yesterday of 30 Rigid Hull Fender Boats (RHFB) to the security agencies under Eastern Sabah Security Command (ESSCom) will further strengthen the security operation at Sabah’s east coast.
Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Musa Aman, who officiated at the handover ceremony at Lahad Datu marine base yesterday, said the government’s determination and quick response in providing these assets proved that the federal government was concerned about the security of the people in Sabah.
Musa said there was an urgent need to improve logistics capabilities, particularly high-powered boats to ensure safety at Eastern Sabah Safety Zone (ESSZone).
“I was made to understand that these boats that will be handled by security agencies in ESSZone are equipped with advanced specifications and high-end system. With this, the security agencies at ESSZone should be more prepared at any time.
“The most important thing is to undertake integrated actions to ensure that the land, including the islands and territorial waters, be free from any forms of threats and intrusions,” he said.
Musa in his speech said the responsibilities to safeguard the security and sovereignty of the country should not be placed on the shoulder of the security forces only.
He said all should assist the security agencies by channeling information and support to the security agencies to ensure that any security threats could be addressed immediately.
“I believe with the addition of new assets and the level of preparedness, operations at ESSZone will be more efficient,” he added.
Meanwhile, National Security Council secretary Datuk Mohamed Thajudeen Abdul Wahab said a total of RM50.76 million had been allocated by the government to acquire these boats. He added that crews had been trained to operate the boats last month.
Also present were Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Dato’ Seri Shahidan Kassim, ESSCom director-general Datuk Mohammad Mentek, Silam member of parliament Datuk Datu Nasrun Datu Mansur, Lahad Datu assemblyman Datuk Mohd Yusof Apdal, and other community leaders.