Travel Advisory: Malaysia (South Eastern Sabah)

From the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade

New Zealanders are strongly advised to defer all travel to areas around Semporna and Tawau on the Sabah mainland and to islands of south eastern Sabah, including Sipadan and Pandanan.

Kidnappings of foreigners and Malaysian citizens by Philippine-based rebel groups are continuing and represent a risk to travellers to this region.

In the latest attack, three Malaysian hostages were seized from the island of Pandanan, off south eastern Sabah on 11 September. Pandanan is only 35 minutes by boat from Sipadan, where the Abu Sayyaf terrorist group seized 21 hostages on 23 April 2000.

Mariners are also advised to take appropriate precautions as pirate attacks and armed robbery against ships are increasing in the same area.

New Zealand citizens intending to travel to these areas should register with the New Zealand High Coimmission in Kuala Lumpur.

Telephone 00603 238 2533, facsimile 00603 238 0387

E-mail nzhckl@pc.jaring.my

Details required are full name, New Zealand passport number and contact details in Malaysia.

Please note: While every care has been taken in preparing these travel advisories, neither the New Zealand Government nor its agents and employees can accept liability for any loss or damage arising in respect of any statement contained therein.

For further enquiries contact:

Consular Division

Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade

Stafford House 38-42

The Terrace, Wellington

Tel 64-4 494-8500; Fax 494-8506

E-mail: cons@mft.govt.nz