KOTA KINABALU – Sabah’s dive operators must avoid behaviours that offend tourists to protect the reputation of the state’s tourism industry, said state minister Datuk Christina Liew.
This follows reports on the arrest of a local divemaster who allegedly molested a woman from China during a diving excursion.
Liew, who is state tourism, culture and environment minister, said she needed a better understanding of the case before commenting further, but advised operators not to behave in ways that would upset tourists and tarnish Sabah’s tourism industry.
“I have instructed Sabah Parks, the statutory body in charge of the dive sites in Semporna, to probe the case.
“I am also waiting for the authorities’ investigation report. I will issue my statement after consulting with Sabah Parks,” she told The Vibes, today.
The incident which occurred three days ago involved a 25-year-old female Chinese national in Semporna.
A video of the alleged incident, a photo of the woman’s police report and alleged text messages of the suspect to the victim are being shared on social media.
However, based on shared photos of the police report, the incident appears to have occurred at Mataking Island, which is not under the Sabah Parks’ purview as it is a private island.
Police today revealed they yesterday arrested a 27-year-old freelance divemaster in connection to the incident.
Semporna acting police chief Arif Abdul Razak in a statement said the alleged incident took place around 1pm on May 5 during a dive in the waters off Semporna.
“A police report was received on May 6 by the Chinese national claiming she had been kissed by the divemaster during the diving activity,” said Arif, adding that the woman lodged the report moments before her flight to Kuala Lumpur and onward to China.
Police arrested the divemaster at a house in a water village in Semporna at about 12.05am on May 7.
The case is being investigated under Section 354 of the Penal Code for using criminal force to outrage the modesty of the woman.
In response to the incident, Sabah Dive Squad Club leader Sim Fui called for a code of ethics course for all divemasters.
“By reminding dive instructors and divemasters of the code of ethics, we can protect the reputation of our industry and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all,” he said.
Meanwhile, Sabah police commissioner Datuk Jauteh Dikun also advised tourism operators to ensure their workers behave appropriately as foreign visitors are making a comeback to the state.
“All operators involved in tourism activities, please make sure all your staff are given advice and reminders to behave themselves.
“Avoid doing anything inappropriate,” said the newly appointed state police commissioner in Kota Kinabalu today. – The Vibes, May 8, 2023
