Eastern Malaysia concern

The State Department alerts travelers that both criminal and terrorist groups intend acts of violence against foreigners in eastern Sabah, notwithstanding the government of Malaysia’s increased ability to detect and prevent such attacks. 

The Abu Sayyaf Group, based in the southern Philippines, has kidnapped foreigners in eastern Sabah in the past. Of present concern are the resorts (and transportation to and from them) located in isolated areas of eastern Sabah, including Semporna and the islands of Mabul and Sipadan.