Is Semporna and Mabul Island Safe and Should You Be Worried?

If you’ve been researching your trip to Sabah, you’ve probably come across this question more than once. Is Mabul Island safe? And is it okay to stay in Semporna?

A recent traveller asked the same thing in a popular Facebook group. They had booked three nights in Semporna because Mabul was fully booked and were wondering why so many people warned against staying there. The replies were a mix of everything. Some said to avoid it completely. One person even replied, “This all sounds pretty awful to be honest. Maybe I should just skip Semporna and head to Sarawak instead.” Others were unsure, mentioning things like travel insurance not being valid and old travel advisories from years back.

So what is the real story? The truth is, yes, there have been safety concerns in the past. But the situation today is very different. Mabul Island is well-guarded, with two police bases and daily patrols keeping the area secure. Many travellers, including solo divers, couples, and families, have come and gone feeling completely safe.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about safety in Mabul. We’ll cover the facts, share local insights, and give you practical tips so you can enjoy your trip without second-guessing your decision.

Why Do People Worry About Mabul and Semporna?

If you have come across travel warnings about Eastern Sabah, you are not alone. These concerns usually go back to a handful of serious incidents that happened nearly 20 years ago involving piracy and kidnappings near some of the islands close to the border. The region was once a hotspot for cross-border security issues, which led to safety alerts and headlines that still circulate online today.

Because of that past, some countries like the United Kingdom and Australia continue to list travel advisories for parts of Eastern Sabah. These are often general and cautious, which is why they still appear even though conditions have improved a lot over the years.

It is completely understandable to feel uncertain if this is your first trip. Safety is a big deal, especially when you are travelling far from home. That is why it helps to look at the current situation on the ground and hear from people who have been there recently. In the next section, we will walk you through what has changed, the safety measures in place now, and why so many travellers still come to Mabul to dive, relax, and enjoy the islands without worry.

A Look at Security in Mabul Today

Over the years, security around Mabul Island has improved a lot. The island now has two police bases located on opposite ends, giving both locals and visitors a constant sense of safety. Officers are visible throughout the day and night, and are always ready to respond if needed.

Out at sea, you’ll often see patrol boats making their rounds. These daily patrols are carried out not just by local police but also through a wider effort under the Eastern Sabah Security Command, also known as ESSCOM. This task force brings together police, military, and maritime agencies to protect the coastline and islands across eastern Sabah.

Beyond Malaysia’s own efforts, there’s also a joint patrol agreement between Malaysia, the Philippines, and Indonesia. Together, they work to keep the Sulu Sea secure. This extra layer of cooperation has been in place for years and helps maintain peace in areas close to international waters.

If you ask dive guides or homestay owners, most will tell you the same thing. Mabul feels safe, the security measures are in place, and they can fully focus on giving guests the best possible experience in the water.

What Travellers Are Saying About Mabul and Semporna

If you have been scrolling through Facebook or reading travel forums, you are not alone in wondering, “Is Mabul safe?” or “Should I really stay in Semporna?” The answers vary, but there is a clear pattern. The concerns are real, but so are the reassurances.

Some travellers are cautious or even hesitant. One person shared that they almost skipped Semporna after reading so many negative posts. Others raised concerns about travel insurance not covering the area, or cited old news about piracy and past incidents. These worries are understandable, especially for those visiting Sabah for the first time.

But then you read the recent posts. One solo traveller said, “I have just left Semporna, travelling alone, no problem at all. A lot of fake posts about this city.” Another wrote, “That was a long time ago. I went two weeks ago, super safe. Book with Asiatic. Fantastic company.” Even someone diving with kids said, “Just been. Totally safe. We got high-risk travel insurance and it was a stunning place.”

And the comments keep coming. “Totally safe.” “No problem, just come over.” “No problem going there, trust me.”

The general advice from frequent travellers is simple. If you want the best experience, stay on the islands like Mabul, Kapalai, or Mataking. These spots are quieter, surrounded by reef life, and closer to the dive sites. Semporna itself is more of a transit town, but many travellers still report feeling safe, especially if they stay just outside the town centre.

Overall, the diving is world-class, the security is visible, and most visitors return with great memories. When in doubt, ask the locals or dive centres. They know the area better than anyone and are always happy to help you plan a smooth and safe stay.

Should You Stay in Semporna or Mabul?

This is one of the most common questions travellers ask, especially when planning dive trips around Mabul and Sipadan. The answer really depends on what kind of experience you are looking for.

Semporna is a busy town on the mainland. It has plenty of local eateries, night markets, and simple guesthouses. It is often more affordable, but it is not known for its beauty or charm. Some parts of the town can feel crowded or run-down, and there is not much to do outside of diving or catching boats to the islands.

Mabul, on the other hand, feels like a completely different world. It is quiet, peaceful, and surrounded by clear waters and coral reefs. Many dive resorts and homestays sit right on the beach or over the sea. It costs a bit more to stay here, but you wake up just minutes from your dive site and go to sleep with the sound of waves in the background.

If you need to stay in Semporna due to budget or availability, many travellers recommend choosing a place just outside the town centre. You will still be close to the jetty, but it feels quieter and more comfortable.

Whichever location you choose, the most important thing is to take normal travel precautions. Book your trips through licensed operators, avoid walking alone late at night, and stay informed with your hotel or dive centre. Both Semporna and Mabul are generally safe for visitors, and many travellers return with great memories and zero issues.

What About Travel Insurance?

This is one of the most important things to check before your trip, especially if you plan to dive in the waters around Semporna or Mabul. Some countries still have travel advisories for parts of eastern Sabah. Because of this, certain travel insurance policies might not offer full coverage if something goes wrong.

Before you travel, take a few minutes to read the fine print of your insurance policy. Look out for any exclusions related to government warnings or high-risk zones. If you are unsure, speak directly with your provider.

Many divers choose to add extra protection through their dive centre. Some operators offer top-up coverage or have partnerships with insurers that specialise in diving trips. It is a small extra cost, but it gives you peace of mind.

The good news is that thousands of travellers visit Mabul and Semporna every year without any issues. The key is to stay informed, book with trusted operators, and make sure your insurance covers everything you need. With the right preparation, your trip will be stress-free and filled with amazing underwater memories.

Safety Tips for Staying in the Area

If you’re planning a trip to Semporna, Mabul or the surrounding islands, a little preparation can go a long way in making your stay safe and enjoyable.

Keep emergency contacts saved on your phone and written down somewhere accessible. This includes your boat crew, tour organiser and any local emergency services. It’s always good to be prepared, even if you never need to use them.

Respect local customs and follow guidance from your guides while you’re out and about. Avoid restricted areas and don’t wander off alone in unfamiliar places, especially at night.

And if you’d rather skip the stress of figuring it all out yourself, you can book your trip with us. We’ll handle the details, work with trusted locals and make sure everything runs smoothly so you can just relax and enjoy the islands.

Final Thoughts

Mabul is one of the best places in Malaysia for diving and underwater photography. From its calm waters to its colourful coral reefs, it’s a destination that keeps drawing travellers back again and again.

It’s true that some travellers have concerns about safety in this region. But the reality on the ground has changed a lot over the years. With visible security, daily patrols, and experienced local dive operators, Mabul is now a well-guarded island where most visitors feel safe and welcome.

If you are still feeling unsure, we totally get it. That’s why we’re happy to help. Send us a message or book your dive trip with The Borneo Nomads. We live here, we dive here, and we know what it takes to make your stay both safe and unforgettable.

This post was written by Irfan, from The Borneo Nomads team
We share stories from our own experiences and invite local voices to keep things real, helpful, and grounded in the places we know best.