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Reviewed: 16 May 2013, 11:30 NZDT
Still current at: 21 May 2013
There is extreme risk to your security in eastern Sabah (from Kudat to Tawau, including Sandakan, Lahad Datu, Kunak and Semporna and the offshore islands and dive sites) and we advise against all travel due to the uncertain security situation and risk of kidnapping. New Zealanders currently in the area are advised to adhere to any instructions issued by the Malaysian authorities and depart when it is safe to do so. This area has been declared a Special Security Zone by the Malaysian Government following the intrusion of around 200 armed militants from the Sulu archipelago in the Philippines in February 2013 and subsequent armed clashes with Malaysian security forces. Terrorist and criminal groups have in the past kidnapped foreigners from the islands and coastal areas of eastern Sabah - further kidnappings cannot be ruled out.
New Zealanders are advised against crossing the Malaysian border into Thailand by land because of on-going violence due to insurgency in the southern Thai provinces.
There is some risk to your security elsewhere in Malaysia and we advise caution. Malaysia shares with the rest of South East Asia a threat from terrorism. New Zealanders are advised to be security conscious around places where foreigners gather, including hotels, tourist sites, and resorts popular with foreigners.
New Zealanders should be aware that political rallies are planned throughout the country in the period following national elections on 5 May 2013.
We recommend you avoid all protests, demonstrations and political gatherings as they have the potential to turn violent.
Piracy is a problem in South East Asian waters, particularly in the Strait of Malacca and in the waters between Sabah and the southern Philippines. Mariners are advised to take appropriate precautionary measures in these waters. We advise against travelling by sea to the Southern Philippines. For more information view the International Maritime Bureau's piracy report.
General travel advice
New Zealanders travelling or living in Malaysia should have comprehensive medical and travel insurance policies in place that include provision for medical evacuation by air.
New Zealanders in Malaysia are encouraged to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
Contact details are
Street Address Level 21, Menara IMC, 8 Jalan Sultan Ismail, Kuala Lumpur
Telephone +60 3 2078 2533 Facsimile +60 3 2078 0387
Website New Zealand Embassy Kuala Lumpur [external link]
Office Hours Mon-Thurs 0800-1630 hrs, Fri 0800-1600 hrs