Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Aman said the authorities would handle appropriately the murder-kidnapping case which occurred in Semporna early today involving two foreign tourists.

He said the Eastern Sabah Security Command (ESSCOM) had briefed him on the incident that happened at an isolated spot in the state.

"I believe Sabah is still a safe place to visit as the incident happened in an isolated area.

"However, we will ensure the safety of local visitors and foreign tourists, while the authorities concerned will take appropriate action and conduct a thorough investigation into the case."

He said this at a press conference after tabling the state Supply Bill at the state assembly sitting, here, today.

In this regard, Musa who is also the ESSCOM chairman, urged the people not to panic and not to listen to rumours related to the incident.

Inspector-General of Police, Tan Sri Khalid Abu Bakar had today confirmed the incident in Pulau Pom-Pom, Semporna which occurred at about 1am today with the victims being a Taiwanese couple.

He said police were hunting down a group of armed men believed to be the culprits.