PUTRAJAYA: There is a need to establish new laws aimed at countering violent extremism, specifically to address external influences that pose a threat to national security, says Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
Speaking on the increasing sophistication of global terrorist organisations, the Prime Minister stressed the need for effective legal measures to ensure that Malaysia remains protected from external extremist elements.
"I believe there is a need for a national security law that focuses particularly on efforts to safeguard domestic security from external elements and influences,” he said.
Anwar said this when launching the Malaysia Action Plan on Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism (MyPCVE) at Marriott Hotel here on Monday (Sept 30).
He acknowledged that any move towards such legislation may face resistance from certain quarters but maintained that it is necessary for the protection of the nation.
"No matter how much we wish for a more mature democracy, one thing we cannot accept is allowing the country to become a battleground for extreme groups," he added.
The Prime Minister said he would leave the specifics of the potential legislation to the discretion of Malaysia's security and enforcement agencies, such as the police and the military.
Anwar said he remains committed to ensuring that the law, if introduced, would strengthen Malaysia’s capacity to prevent violent extremism while balancing the nation’s democratic ideals.
The Prime Minister highlighted the growing complexity of terrorism, pointing to the advanced methods and strategies employed by groups like Al-Qaeda and ISIS.
"We are dealing with extremely sophisticated weapons, sophisticated methods, and for those familiar with the workings of Al-Qaeda or ISIS, it is not simple.
“It is very elaborate, with enormous funds and intellectual efforts being placed to win the hearts and minds of their followers and to inflict as much harm as possible on those they deem enemies," he said.
Anwar emphasised the importance of international cooperation, particularly within Asean, in addressing terrorism.
As Malaysia assumes the chairmanship of Asean next year, Anwar said he intends to promote greater collaboration among member nations to combat this evolving threat.
"When I assume the chairmanship of Asean, I will certainly endorse better collaborations among nations within Asean to ensure that we deal with terrorism in a more effective manner."
He further highlighted that Malaysia’s support for political causes, such as that of Hamas, should not be confused with endorsing violence or extremism.
"Our support for Hamas is based on political cooperation, but as a developing nation, we strive to maintain international relations with all, avoiding any involvement in armed conflicts.
“However, that does not absolve us of our responsibility to support what we consider just and to reject falsehood."
