PUTRAJAYA, March 26 – Domestic Trade, Cooperatives and Consumerism Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaacob(Pic) said the creation of Eastern Sabah Safety Zone (ESSZONE) will curb smuggling of subsidised goods.
“It also gives advantage to the ministry as Sabah east coast is among locations for smuggling of fuel and cooking oil to neighbouring countries,”he told reporters here today.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak yesterday announced the creation of ESSZONE covering Kudat, Kota Marudu, Pitas, Beluran, Sandakan, Kinabatangan, Lahad Datu, Kunak, Semporna and Tawau. Ismail Sabri said with the creation of ESSZONE, those involved in the smuggling of goods would be more scared to carry out their activities.
“In terms of business, I believe it is not a problem as it is different from a curfew. The fish caught may be less thus pushing up the price a little bit.”
He said the supply of essential food items was not a problem as the ministry continuously monitor the situation. Earlier, he presented donation of RM228,794.90 sen to widows and beneficiaries of security forces members killed and injured in Sabah. All the proceeds will go directly to the widows and beneficiaries of victims of the intrusion by Sulu terrorists in Lahad Datu and Semporna.
“The ministry will discuss to determine the appropriate amount to be donated to all the victims,” he added.
BERNAMA
