The "Friends of Sabah" smartphone app may contribute to improving east coast tourist safety.

Commander of the Eastern Sabah Security Command (Esscom), Datuk Victor Sanjos, stated that the app, which would be created under Esscom, might make it easier for visitors to respond in an emergency.

Users can start SOS calls to Esscom's operating centre and other emergency response teams, such as the fire and rescue department, hospital, and police, directly from the app when necessary.

"By using the 'Friends of Sabah' app, Esscom will be informed of their presence in the area," he stated.

Yesterday, Victor visited a hotel in this area for an interaction session with tourist stakeholders arranged by the Sabah Tourist Board.

He noted that the Sabah Sea curfew had been renamed to the Esszone Movement Control Order since October 17 of last year in response to a request by tourism industry participants to alter the word "curfew".

Datuk Christina Liew, the state minister for tourism, culture, and the environment, and Datuk Joniston Bangkuai, her assistant minister, were present.

Liew conveyed appreciation for the security forces' guarantee of safety in Sabah, pointing out that this will boost the trust of both present and prospective investors as well as that of foreign visitors.

She concurred with Victor's recommendation that business leaders fulfil their responsibility to inform their foreign customers or visitors about the degree of safety and security. She went on to say that although there was a seemingly endless chance to welcome tourists to Sabah, caution in balancing commercial acumen was necessary.

"Do care for our environment, and most importantly, ensure we adopt best practices and standards of operations for the common good."