TAWAU: Terrorist threats are a global phenomenon that needs to be addressed by all nations, Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Aman said.
Such groups have links that funds terror networks that are always on the prowl all over, said Musa who was represented by Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Tawfiq Titingan.
In a welcoming dinner reception here for Defence Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein and US Marines Corp Forces Pacific Commanding General Lt General Terry Robling.
Hishammuddin will be attending a security briefing here tomorrow with Robling who will later visit several millitary facilities along the east coast of Sabah including Kampung Tanduo in Lahad Datu, the area where armed gunmen from southern Philippines attempted to invade Sabah last year.
Musa said the recent kidnapping cases along the east coast of Sabah has put the state in the limelight for the wrong reasons.
"Be assured on the part of the state government will do all it can to shoulder the negative impact and push it back on its track but at the same time we welcome all the help that come our way.
Hishammuddin's presence Musa said provides the state with a strong assurance of the Federal government concerns on the safety and security of the state, particularly the east coast of Sabah.
"It allows us to stay focused on the state's development agenda knowing we have our Defence Minister watching out for us and our enemies at all times," he said.
Musa also said the Eastern Sabah Security Command (ESSCOM) formed by the government following the invasion attempt by armed gunmen last year and declaration of ten districts in the east coast were also declared as the Eastern Sabah Safety Zone (ESSZONE) has allowed for better management of our safety and security against cross border criminals.
"With ESSCOM we hope to clear a path towards a creating a safer and more secured Sabah and we believe with friends like all of you who are present here, this can be achieved," he added.