DPM Fadillah: Malaysia cannot afford extremist, radical ideologies that threaten peace and unity

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By Amanda L

KUCHING, July 11: Malaysia cannot afford extremist or radical ideologies that threaten the country’s peace, stability and unity, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Amar Fadillah Yusof says, stressing that prevention begins with education, families and communities.

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 said Malaysia’s long-standing harmony was built on moderation and strong moral values which must continue to be nurtured through character development.

“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.

He cautioned that extremist and radical groups continue to exist in Malaysia, making early intervention essential to prevent such ideologies from taking root.

While acknowledging the need for effective security laws, Fadillah maintained that legislation should only be used as a last resort, with greater emphasis placed on shaping values and character.

Asked whether the repealed Internal Security Act (ISA) should be revived, he said Malaysia must continue strengthening its legal framework while balancing national security needs with international standards.

He acknowledged that the Security Offences (Special Measures) Act 2012 (SOSMA) is not as robust as the ISA, but reiterated that laws alone cannot solve the problem.

“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

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