KOTA KINABALU: Deputy Defence Minister Datuk Abdul Rahim Bakri said so far there is no record of former military personnel in the country involved in Islamic States (IS) struggle.
However, he said based on information released by the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) a total of 75 Malaysians have joined IS in West Asia and 10 have died as a result of suicide bombing attacks.
“This Monday, the Home Affairs Department will table the Prevention of Terrorism Act (POTA) bill in Parliament.
“We hope to get the support of all members of Parliament, society, non-government organisations and the media,” he said.
Abdul Rahim told reporters after presenting Pingat Jasa Malaysia to 13 military retirees and officiating the Kota Murudu Veteran Association’s annual general meeting, here today.
According to Abdul Rahim, the POTA would provide the police with legislative powers aimed to protect the country against any form of terrorism. –BERNAMA