Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia), Violence in Coastal Eastern Sabah
Political Violence
East Asia & Pacific > Malaysia
3/4/2013
The U.S. Embassy in Kuala Lumpur advises U.S. Citizens against travel to the following area of Eastern Sabah (Borneo): the coastal region extending from the eastern most tip of Sabah south to the border with Indonesia. This area includes the towns of Lahad Datu, Kunak, Semporna, and Tawau. Several of these towns are the embarkation points for nearby islands frequented by tourists, including the dive site of Sipadan.
During the period March 1-3, clashes occurred in this area between Malaysian security personnel and armed groups that, according to media reports, have resulted in the deaths of at least 26 persons, including 8 police. The Government of Malaysia has mobilized further security forces, and there is the potential for more violent incidents.
Local authorities have restricted movement in and around Lahad Datu in particular. If you encounter official check-points in the area follow all instructions. Upon approaching an official check-point as the driver of a vehicle, do not turn around. Proceed to the check-point and prepare personal identification for the security personnel to examine. U.S. Citizens are reminded that they should carry their U.S. passport with them at all times when in Malaysia.
U.S. Citizens residing in or visiting eastern Sabah should obey any evacuation and curfew orders announced by Malaysian officials.
The U.S. Embassy is not aware of specific threats to U.S. citizens in Malaysia at this time.
https://www.osac.gov/Pages/ContentReportDetails.aspx?cid=13692&__Referrer=morning_newsletter_04_03_2013