The Philippine embassy, Kuala Lumpur, today offered its assistance to the Malaysian authorities in finding a peaceful solution to the incident in Lahad Datu, Sabah.     

This was conveyed by Philippine ambassador to Malaysia J Eduardo Malaya and Philippine foreign affairs undersecretary (Deputy Minister) Jose S Brillantes during a brief meeting with Malaysia's Inspector-General of Police Ismail Omar in Lahad Datu today.     

Malaya in a statement today said they were in Lahad Datu on a consular, humanitarian mission.     

"We are here to help," he said.     

Malaya said they wished to be of help to the local authorities in finding a peaceful solution and avoiding further bloodshed, in line with the pronouncement of both President Aquino III and Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak.     

    

"We would also like to extend consular assistance to the wounded and other affected nationals. It is important we work together closely in finding a peaceful closure to the situation. Each life is precious. Let us find ways to avoid further loss of lives," said Brillantes.     

Brillantes was dispatched from Manila to Malaysia on Feb 25 to assist the embassy in handling the situation.     

In a separate statement today, the embassy called on members of the Filipino-Malaysian community in the eastern coast of Sabah to remain calm and abide by the guidelines issued by the local authorities.     

"We feel and understand the anxieties felt by many of you at these difficult times.     

"The embassy will work with the concerned authorities to ensure your safety and wellbeing. This is not the time to undertake any action that might be misunderstood by some parties," said the embassy.    

Kelantan 21st regiment deployed

Meanwhile a group of soldiers from the 21st Royal Malay Regiment (RAMD) at the 8th Brigade Camp, Pengkalan Chepa, left for Sabah as an additional battalion to monitor the situation in Lahad Datu.    

They were given a tearful send-off by family members at the Sultan Ismail Petra Airport in Pengkalan Chepa, Kota Baharu.    

 "Dear God, protect our father," said six-year-old Mohammad Faris Aiman Mohd Faizul Anuar and younger sister, Arisya Sofia, four, ina telephone conversation with their father, Captain Mohd Faizul Anuar Fazil.      

Siti Nor Juliana Ismail, 28, said it was with a heavy heart to see her husband, Corporal Ismail Ibrahim, 31, leaving, but she understood his responsibility to the country.    

She hoped that the situation in Sabah would returned to normal soon.    

Sarimah Othman, 34, said she was uncertain of her feeling after being informed by husband, Major Zaki Kadir, that he had to go to Sabah.    

"It worries me. I was thinking of our children. They are still very young,. I'll pray for his safe return," she added.    

Armed forces Chief General Tan Sri Zulkifeli Mohd Zin was reported to have said that two more army battalions would be deployed in several areas in the east coast of Sabah in an effort to restore public confidence.    

The incursion in Lahad Datu had claimed the lives of seven policemen in separate incidents in Lahad Datu last Friday and in Semporna yesterday.    

It was reported that 15 of the intruders were killed so far, including one who was reported assaulted by villagers who overpowered him after he took them hostage in a village in Semporna.    

 

- Bernama