Kuala lumpur: The Malaysian government is ramping up its efforts to counter the spread of extremist ideologies among foreign workers in the country. Religious authorities, including the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM), are collaborating closely with the Home Ministry to address this pressing issue, as stated by Datuk Dr Mohd Na'im Mokhtar, the Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs).
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the minister emphasized the importance of curbing radical influences, even though not all foreign workers are affected by such ideologies. Mohd Na'im highlighted that the issue of extremism, particularly involving groups like the Islamic State (IS), is of significant concern. He reiterated the crucial role of religious agencies, especially JAKIM, in preventing the spread of such extremist ideologies.
After attending the 'Rai Ummah' program, Mohd Na'im stated the government's commitment to the principle of wasatiyyah, or moderation, and its firm stance against any form of extremist teachings that deviate from the true teachings of Islam. He expressed strong opposition to ideologies promoting extremism, asserting that such acts are not aligned with Islamic values.
Mohd Na'im has instructed JAKIM and the Yayasan Dakwah Islamiah Malaysia (YADIM) to enhance their efforts in addressing issues of radicalism. He also directed these agencies to strengthen their cooperation with the Home Ministry, especially in dealing with foreign workers potentially influenced by extremist ideologies. The minister expressed confidence that ongoing collaboration between religious agencies and the Home Ministry will effectively curb the spread of radical ideologies among foreign workers.
Earlier, Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Mohd Khalid Ismail revealed that the Radical Militant Movement of Bangladesh (GMRB) had been dismantled by the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM). The group was allegedly involved in raising funds and recruiting members for the Islamic State (IS) in Syria and Bangladesh. Initial investigations indicated that the group collected funds through an annual membership fee of RM500 per person, with additional contributions based on members' financial capabilities.
Mohd Khalid disclosed that the group had an estimated membership of 100 to 150 individuals, mainly Bangladesh nationals working in various sectors, including factories, construction, and petrol stations across Malaysia. On June 27, PDRM successfully disrupted a foreign militant network, arresting 36 Bangladesh nationals suspected of direct involvement in radical militant movements linked to extremist beliefs and terrorist ideologies.
Recently, Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail confirmed that these arrests were part of a series of planned security operations conducted in Selangor and Johor, which began on April 24.