KOTA KINABALU, (Sept 21) — Two forward bases to be located in Sabah waters will be completed by April next year, in a move to thwart all threats and strengthen security along Malaysian waters, said Defence Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Tun Hussein.
He said one of the forward bases would be at a Petronas petroleum rig which was no longer in use, and its construction was expected to cost about RM230 million.
The other forward base, costing RM200 million, would be at the Bunga Mas Lima ship.
“I want to announce today that arising from my talks with Petronas, there will be two forward bases in Sabah waters by April next year. This involves an oil rig which is no longer used while the other involves the Bunga Mas Lima ship,” said Hishammuddin.
He was speaking to reporters after officiating the Penampang Division Umno Delegates meeting here Sunday.