KOTA KINABALU:Police are not preventing any organisation of welfare activities organised by volunteers, including an aid mission conducted by an independent preacher, Ebit Lew.

However, all volunteers are encouraged to consult with authorities such as the police and the National Security Council (MKN) first due to security factors.

Sabah Police Commissioner Datuk Hazani Ghazali said this while referring to a statement issued by Ebit claiming to be barred from carrying out aid mission on the east coast of Sabah.

"The police or Eastern Sabah Security Command (ESSCOM) has never stopped or issued any order to stop Ustaz Ebit Lew’s program in the area.

"We have never issued any instructions or actions to block programs organised by volunteers such as Ustaz Ebit Lew.

"However, they are encouraged to consult with authorities such as the police and the National Security Council (MKN) first for security reasons," he said in a statement on Tuesday.

According to Hazani, the police welcome the cooperation of any non-governmental organisation (NGO) to organise charitable programs to help the needy.

"There are also statements posted on social media regarding the curfew order covering the waters of Tawau, Semporna, Kunak, Lahad Datu, Kinabatangan, Sandakan and Beluran.

"The order was issued to ensure that the waters are not invaded by terrorists who threaten the safety and well-being of the people of Sabah.

"It has nothing to do with programs organised by volunteers or NGOs in any area in the state.

"We only ask him (Ebit) to consult with the authorities, this is to identify the status of the island and the residents involved," he said.

Earlier, Ebit in a post on his Facebook claimed that he had to stop the aid mission because he was not allowed to visit the islands around Semporna.

He, who is known for his philanthropic nature, claimed that he could be fined RM100,000 or jailed for three years if he continued with his intention