Resort Islands In Semporna Continue To Attract Tourists

SEMPORNA (Sabah, Malaysia), March 16 (Bernama) -- The recent intrusion by Sulu terrorists from southern Philippines into Sabah has not deterred foreign tourists from going to the resort islands in Semporna. A Bernama representative who followed the Marine Police in its operations and patrol in waters off Semporna and the resort islands found the place with foreign holiday makers. The resort managers and employees, when met, said their daily activities went on as normal. "We are comfortable, feel safe and happy here. We have been here for four days and have been to Sipadan Island for diving and snorkeling activities," said Peter Neish, in his 20s, from Northern Ireland, when met at Mabul Island. He said the presence of members of the Malaysian security forces, including conducting patrols in waters off the islands, made him feel more confident. "We encourage people to come here. We will be back again. This is the most beautiful place we have been to," he added. A tourist from Sweden, Bjorn Echeteldt Ingrid, 57, said he arrived in Sabah five weeks ago and had been to Kota Kinabalu, Kudat, Sandakan and participated in a tree planting programme in Sukau. "We spent a lot for the forest replanting programme (in Sukau), but we are happy to do it for the future of the Orang Utan and the pygmy elephants in Borneo," said Ingrid, a supervisor of a paper factory in Sweden. Ingrid said he was initially skeptical to come to Mabul Island because of the intrusion incident, but decided to go ahead with his plans after being assured by travel agents that the situation was safe, despite advise by the Swedish government for its citizens to not go to Semporna. A Chinese tourist, who requested to be identified only as William, said he and his group had been on Mabul Island for four days and they felt safe. The group had also been to Sipadan Island for diving activities. Kapalai Sipadan Resort general manager Ken Fong said activities at the resort went as normal. He said the resort continued to receive guests from China, but there was a drop in tourists from Europe. "It is safe here. There is nothing to fear," he added. -- BERNAMA