SEPANGGAR: The naval base here attracted more foreign military tourists and vessels in the past two years which contributed to the State's tourism industry.Sabah, Sarawak and Federal Territory Labuan Naval Region Two Commander Rear Admiral Datuk Anuwi Hassan, who disclosed this, said a total of 10,021 foreign military tourists and 30 foreign navy vessels visited Sabah, particularly the State Capital, last year and in 2010.
"The Sepanggar naval base recorded a total of 16 foreign navy vessels and 3,761 navy personnel which we categorised as military tourists.
"The number increased last year when 14 such foreign vessels with a total of 6,260 military tourists visited the naval base.
"They came here for the natural beauty of Sabah and to visit the eco-tourism attractions like our beautiful islands, scuba diving spots and climbing Mount Kinabalu. They are also keen on white-water rafting and jungle-trekking activities," he said.
Anuwi said this at a press conference after inspecting a farewell parade at a marching field of the naval base at Sepanggar Bay, here, Monday.
He will be transferred back to Kuala Lumpur to assume the role of Assistant Chief of Staff, Operations and Exercise at the headquarters of the Malaysian Armed Forces after handing over his current post to First Admiral Datuk Pahlawan Mohamad Rosland Omar this Friday.
Among other factors, Anuwi said the foreign military tourists preferred to visit Sabah as the naval base here is safe and provides the best logistics for them like quality sport facilities.
Of the 14 visiting foreign navy vessels last year, he said eight were from the United States of America (USA), two from Brunei Darussalam and one each from France, India, Australia and Singapore.
Among the 16 foreign vessels recorded 2010, he said 10 were from USA, two from Brunei Darussalam and one each from France, Australia, Thailand and Singapore.
"The increase in the arrivals of military tourists is proof that Sabah is their favourite destination.
"In fact, navy vessels from USA have made Kota Kinabalu as their third choice destination compared to Singapore and Hong Kong to do operational visits, recreation and retreat," he said.
Anuwi, who has been serving here for more than two years, also thanked Head of State Tun Juhar Mahiruddin for giving him advice on security matters and Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Aman for his support, encouragement and cooperation to him (Anuwi) when serving the post here.
