: No compromise when it comes to security: Syed Zahiruddin

TAWAU, The security of the country should not be compromised by any matter and the upgrading of the district KD Sri Tawau is no exception in any ways as the country need to be prepared despite peace time.

The recent conclusion of the OSTEX East 3/08 naval training has proven the capability of the Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) in protecting the coast of Sabah, Sarawak and Federal Territory of Labuan from any possible threat involving around 800 officers and personnel.

Speaking during a press conference held at KD Sri Tawau, First Admiral Syed Zahiruddin Putra bin Syed Osman, the Panglima for Wilayah Laut 2, said all equipment used during the training which include seven warships and one tow ship went without any breakdown or facing difficulties thus proving the ability of the force in executing their duties.

`As stated, we include a training scenario on the recent hijacking case which occurred at Somalia and this is enhancing our ability’, he stated.

He said the Wilayah Laut 2 now has some seventeen ships, two helicopters and a dozen combat boats apart from the various support equipment and for the first time next year, the force will also obtain two submarines to compliment the existing equipment.

He also said the base defend scenarios which include the scene on the Somalia’s incident is aim at preventing intrusion and sabotage efforts.

He also said that KD Sri Tawau will become the third largest naval base in the state after Sepanggar and Sandakan naval base after upgrade which will begin to take place next year and will be expected to be completed in two years time.

Caption: Syed Zahiruddin (right) during the press conference with KD Sri Tawau commanding officer Lieutenant commander Wan Alias bin Wan Mamat.