19/03/2013 (Bernama) - The Eastern Sabah Security Command (ESSCOM) will not only enhance security but also the economic development of northern Sabah, including Kota Marudu, said Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Datuk Seri Dr Maximus Ongkili.

He said, with the implementation of ESSCOM, security would be strengthened, resulting in a confidence boost and ease of doing business in the areas.

"With security strengthened, towns such as Karakit of Pulau Banggi, Kudat, Kota Marudu and Pitas will experience strong growth fuelled by expansion in the agricultural sector, especially for plantation crops of oil palm and rubber.

"Small coastal farmers will have no fear to develop their land and plantation companies can expand their planted areas," said Ongkili, who is also Kota Marudu member of parliament, at the swearing-in of the Kota Marudu district councillors here Monday.

He said the expansion of the agricultural activities would result in the towns getting more vibrant as they provided farm supplies, while tourism would also enormously grow and benefit tour operators.