Netherlands moves 10 Malaysia dive islands to orange travel code Aug. 10

Travelers can still enter Malaysia under existing rules, but Dutch authorities say holiday trips to several Sabah islands are unsafe because of kidnapping and piracy risks.

Ten islands carry orange advice

The Netherlands applies its orange travel code, meaning travel only when strictly necessary, to Balambangan, Banggi, Jambongan and Lankayan in the Sulu Sea. The same warning covers Mabul, Pom Pom, Kapalai, Ligitan, Sipadan and Mataking in the Celebes Sea.

The Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs listed the advice as current on Aug. 10. The United Kingdom, United States and Canada maintain similar warnings for islands, dive sites or maritime areas off eastern Sabah, though their geographic definitions differ.

Malaysia’s entry process is unchanged

The advisory doesn’t close the islands or alter Malaysian immigration rules. Dutch tourists remain eligible for stays of up to 90 days without a visa, with the arrival process including the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card and passport clearance.

The rest of the country, including Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Langkawi and mainland Sabah, remains yellow under Dutch advice, indicating heightened caution rather than a recommendation to avoid travel. Longer stays still require the relevant Malaysian visa or residence status, covered in the Malaysia guide.

Travel only with security arrangements

Travelers with an urgent reason to visit an orange-coded island should check current local conditions before departure, use an official tour operator working with Malaysian authorities and travel with security personnel, the ministry said. It advises staying in a well-secured hotel and carrying a passport at all times.

The orange designation can limit embassy assistance and may affect insurance coverage, so travelers should confirm their policy before booking transport or accommodation.