SANDAKAN: Community leaders and the public here are urged to join voluntary bodies to help security forces tackle crimes, especially at the borders.
Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Datuk Seri Dr Shahidan Kassim said village development and security committee members are encouraged to join the Civil Defence department, while those living along coastal areas are encouraged to join reserve forces for the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency.
"By doing so, people can help the government stop crimes such as theft, or prevent the illegal entry of outsiders before security forces reach the scene.
"This is a way for civilians to work with the government, rather than just criticizing the Eastern Sabah Security Command when untoward incidents happen," he said after chairing a meeting with local leaders here last night.
The meeting was held to brief community members on the latest developments of Esscom, and for authorities to understand the issues faced by the people.
On a related matter, a 65 year-old resident of Kampung Batu Putih here voiced his concerns yesterday that coastal villages are becoming transit points for illegal immigrants from the southern Philippines fleeing a military offensive against the Abu Sayyaf group.
The village is about a two-hour boat ride from Bakungan island, which is suspected to be one of the main transit points for illegal immigrants, and, it is feared, militants.