WASHINGTON DC (15 Jan 2001) -- The US State Department has extended for five months travel warnings advising travelers to avoid the Sabah area of Malaysia. The travel warning cites continued fears of terrorism and specifically names Sipadan Island and Pandanan Island, two resort areas that cater primarily to divers. The Philippines-based Abu Sayyaf rebels launched attacks on both Sipadan and Pandanan Islands last year kidnapping 24 dive tourists and resort staff. A Sipadan Island dive instructor remains hostage almost nine months after he was abducted. | | Abu Sayyaf Al-Qaeda backed terrorists To review the latest US State Department travel warnings, go to CDNN's Diver Alert feature. © CDNN - CYBER DIVER NEWS NETWORK |
