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LAHAD DATU: The use of advanced technology and high-tech security assets is an important step in strengthening security controls in the Eastern Sabah Security Zone (Esszone).

Eastern Sabah Security Command (Esscom) Commander Datuk Victor Sanjos said assets such as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are needed to address the security challenges in the border areas of the country, especially on the east coast of Sabah covering about 1,400km.

He said high-tech assets like UAVs are important to control the border from threats such as smuggling and the entry of illegal immigrants.

“The use of UAVs enables the security team to obtain accurate information in real-time, even when faced with bad weather conditions or big waves. 

“With UAVs, we can collect the data and then send it to the operations centre for further action.

“For smaller areas, drones are the best option. Drones enable monitoring from an aerial view, thus giving a clear picture of movements in the area,” he said.

Victor said the data obtained from UAVs and drones allows Esscom to plan actions to maintain security more efficiently.

He said the use of UAVs and drones can also reduce operational costs and improve the safety of security members on duty because they will have more accurate information before entering risky areas.

In terms of land border control, Victor suggested the use of the latest sensor technology to detect intrusion at the country’s borders.

According to him, this sensor technology works by monitoring human movement at a relatively long distance using fibre-optic technology.

“If there is an intrusion, this fibre-optic sensor will detect and send data to the operation centre for further action,” he said, adding the sensor technology can also plot data on a map, allowing the operations team to plan monitoring and raids more effectively.

He also suggested that the use of this technology be started in Sebatik Island, Tawau, before expanding it to other areas in the Esszone.

“With the installation of this technology, we may no longer need to station 24-hour personnel at the land border. This will be supported by the installation of cameras to monitor movement in the area,” he said.

According to him, the application for the use of all these technologies has been submitted and included in the Esscom budget, as a continuous effort to strengthen security in the Esszone.