Police are closely monitoring heretical groups to prevent their teachings from escalating into extremist or militant threats to national security
GEORGE TOWN: Police are keeping a close watch on heretical groups in the country to prevent their teachings from escalating into extremist ideologies.
Deputy Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay (pic) said continuous monitoring was crucial to prevent ideologies from developing into terrorist or militant threats.
“Certain parties ask why the police are concerned with deviant teachings, assuming it is not a police matter,” he said.
He explained that such teachings can escalate into extremist ideologies and eventually lead to terrorist or militant activities.
“We must monitor them. If they cross the security line, from deviant teachings to planning (violent) attacks, we must take action.”
Ayob Khan said this after participating in a police solidarity fun ride event.
He was responding to criticism from parties who questioned the police’s efforts in monitoring such groups.
The police will maintain close cooperation with state governments, mufti departments, and Islamic authorities to tackle related issues.
He cited the Jemaah Islamiah (JI) group as an example of how deviant teachings can evolve.
“The JI group began with deviant teachings. After entering Malaysia around 1985, the group developed extremist ideologies.”
Ayob Khan said most heretical groups currently under police monitoring involve locals.
Their ideologies are often shaped by influences from abroad.
He had previously revealed that 14 deviant teachings were identified as still active in the country.
These groups are being closely monitored by the authorities.
