The Eastern Sabah Security Zone (ESSZONE) is a security zone in the Malaysian state of Sabah that was launched by Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak on 25 March 2013 following persistent attacks by pirates and militants from the southern Philippines that occurred in the eastern part of Sabah especially after the 2013 Lahad Datu standoff.[1] It includes the districts of Kudat, Kota Marudu, Pitas, Beluran, Sandakan, Kinabatangan, Lahad Datu, Kunak, Semporna and Tawau (including Kalabakan), which is neighbouring to the Philippines.[1][2]
The Eastern Sabah Security Command (ESSCOM) is the main enforcement authority for ESSZONE, chaired by Datuk Seri Musa Aman.[3][4] The Malaysian Government has embarked on a programme to significantly upgrade the land, sea and air defence capabilities of the Malaysian Armed Forces in ESSZONE.
- ^ a b "PM Announces Setting Up Of Eastern Sabah Safety Zone". BERNAMA. 25 March 2013. Retrieved 27 March 2013.
- ^ "Security area widened in east Sabah". New Straits Times. 26 March 2013. Retrieved 27 March 2013.
- ^ "Pelantikan Pengerusi ESSZONE satu tanggungjawab besar: Musa". Berita Harian (in Malay). 26 March 2013. Retrieved 27 March 2013.
- ^ "AG clears air on ESSZone, ESSCom confusion". The Borneo Insider. 3 April 2013. Retrieved 11 October 2014.