By Amanda L
KUCHING, July 11: Malaysia must strengthen its security laws while balancing national security with international standards, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Amar Fadillah Yusof says, citing challenges in addressing extremist ideologies and 3R (race, religion and royalty) issues.
Speaking to reporters after officiating a seminar on Sustainability of Nusantara Islamic Thought: Sarawak Prosperous and Progressive 2026M/1448H held at Hikmah Exchange Event Centre today, he was asked whether the repealed Internal Security Act (ISA) should be revived.
“Malaysia must continuously review and strengthen its legal framework, while ensuring it strikes a balance between safeguarding national security and meeting international standards,” he said.
Fadillah acknowledged that the Security Offences (Special Measures) Act 2012 (SOSMA) is not as robust as the ISA, adding that addressing issues involving race, religion and royalty (3R) under the current legal framework remains challenging.
Nevertheless, he stressed that legislation should only serve as a last resort, with greater emphasis placed on preventing extremism through education and character development.
“Malaysia cannot afford extremist or radical ideologies that threaten the country’s peace, stability and unity. Families, schools and communities must play a greater role in fostering moderation.
“In the Islamic context, education should emphasise the development of sahsiah (character) through tasawuf, guided by the Quran and the Sunnah, to instil moderation, compassion and mutual assistance,” he said.
Fadillah cautioned that extremist and radical groups continue to exist in the country, warning that failure to address such ideologies early could undermine Malaysia’s long-standing harmony.
“More importantly, we need to build good character. If individuals possess strong values and moral character, extremist and radical tendencies can be prevented from taking root,” he said. — DayakDaily
