KUCHING: Malaysia must strengthen its legal framework to effectively counter radicalism and extremism, but nurturing a society anchored on strong moral values remains the most sustainable solution, said Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Amar Fadillah Yusof.
He said that although the Security Offences (Special Measures) Act 2012 (SOSMA) is in place, it is not as robust as the former Internal Security Act (ISA) in dealing with security threats, including issues involving religion, race and the monarchy (3R).
“A policy decision has already been made, and that is why we need to strengthen our country’s legal framework.
“We know SOSMA is already in place, but it is not as robust as the ISA was in curbing even 3R-related issues. It is indeed very difficult,” he said.
Fadillah said this when met by reporters after the closing ceremony of the ‘Seminar Kelestarian Islam Nusantara Sarawak Maju Makmur 2026M/1448H’ programme at the Hikmah Exchange Event Centre (HEEC) here on Saturday (July 11).
However, he stressed that any move to strengthen the law must strike a balance between safeguarding national security and preserving social harmony, while also meeting international standards.
He said legislation should be regarded as the last line of defence in addressing security threats, with greater emphasis placed on cultivating good character and moral values within society.
“More importantly, we must shape the values of the people themselves because, to me, character-building is more important than focusing on legislation.
“Ultimately, if every individual is brought up with good character, radicalism and extremism can be set aside, and people will always treat one another with love and compassion,” he added.
