KOTA KINABALU: Sabah might see security and immigration repercussions if the construction of the customs, immigration, quarantine and security complex (CIQS) in Kalabakan is not carried out soon, warns Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.

       He will discuss this matter with the Federal Government as the RM600mil CIQS project at the district bordering Kalimantan of Indonesia concerns all Sabahans.

       “This is an important project that cannot be delayed because Sabah borders Kalimantan, Indonesia, among others, and this is needed for the state so that a proper route can be used for those entering Sabah or the Tawau area,” he said.

       He said he feared that there would be uncontrolled entry of illegal immigrants using uncharted routes if the CIQS was not built.

       “We hope the Federal Government will reconsider this aspect on our part and prioritise the construction of this facility,” he said after the launch of Sabah Maju Jaya’s (SMJ) first-year anniversary programme here yesterday.

       Recently, Works Minister Datuk Fadillah Yusof announced the suspension of the project due to the lack of funding.

       Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin had on Monday said the CIQS project that included staff quarters was a priority project aimed at spurring economic activity in the east coast of Sabah.

       He said the announcement by Fadillah to suspend the project came as a surprise to the state.

       On other matters, Hajiji encouraged all government and private departments, agencies and entities to work with the state government to ensure the successful delivery of the SMJ initiative to develop Sabah and its people.

       The Sabah Maju Jaya initiative was launched in March last year to drive and implement the state’s development plans in a holistic manner.