DPM Fadillah says Malaysia will not tolerate extremist and radical ideologies that threaten peace and unity in a multi-racial society.
KUCHING: Malaysia will not tolerate the spread of extremist and radical ideologies, as they have the potential to undermine peace, stability and unity in the country’s multi-racial society, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof said.
He said efforts to curb such ideologies must begin with building a progressive and moderate society, while strengthening character development through education rooted in religious values.
“The responsibility cannot rest with the government alone. It requires the cooperation of families, educational institutions and the wider community to prevent extremist ideologies from taking root at an early stage.
“Character and values are the most effective long-term defence because individuals with strong moral principles are less likely to be influenced by radical or extremist ideologies.
“Character building must therefore be given priority, particularly through moral education based on the Quran and Sunnah,” he told reporters after opening the 2026M/1448H Sustainability of Nusantara Islamic Thought Seminar here today. Also present was Deputy Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay.
Fadillah said while legislation remained an important tool in addressing such threats, it should be considered as part of a broader approach that balanced national security, social harmony and international standards
“Legislation should be the last resort. Priority should instead be given to nurturing a society guided by strong moral values, which provides the best defence against the spread of extremist ideologies,” he said.
Meanwhile, Ayob Khan said the repealed Internal Security Act (ISA) had been among the most effective mechanisms for addressing threats to national security, racial and religious issues, deviant teachings, as well as matters involving race, religion and royalty (3R).
He said that while the ISA was in force, authorities were able to act when an ideology or teaching was found to threaten national security, racial unity or contravene rulings issued by the National Fatwa Council, without having to wait for action by the State Islamic Religious Departments.
