A suspected World War II bomb discovered near Sibuan Island in Semporna remains undetonated, keeping the popular tourist spot closed to visitors.

Sabah Parks director Dr. Maklarin Lakim said the authorities have not declared the area safe, and the site will remain off-limits until further notice.

“The authorities will update us on when we can reopen the site to the public,” Maklarin said in Kota Kinabalu, on Friday.

The bomb-like object was discovered on Tuesday, prompting Sabah Parks to close the island and issue an alert.

Semporna police chief Superintendent Mohd Sabri Zainol said the Royal Malaysia Police Bomb Disposal Unit is still assessing the object.

“The bomb disposal team is waiting for confirmation from the Royal Malaysian Navy before taking further action,” Sabri said.

Authorities believe the object may date back to World War II, but further verification is needed before any disposal measures are taken.

Sibuan Island, part of the Tun Sakaran Marine Park, is a popular spot for tourists and divers, attracting visitors with its crystal-clear waters and coral reefs.

The island will remain closed until bomb disposal experts from the peninsula can verify and safely remove the suspected explosive.

Residents and tourism operators have expressed concerns over the prolonged closure, urging authorities to expedite the process.

The discovery has reignited discussions on Sabah’s history during World War II and the unexploded ordnance left behind in the region. – January 10, 2025.

Semporna MP Datuk Seri Mohd Shafie Apdal recently urged the authorities to hasten the removal of the alleged bomb to allow the local tourism industry in the area to resume as normal. – January 10, 2025.