PUTRAJAYA, Sept 30 — The government today launched the Malaysian Action Plan on Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism (MyPCVE) to boost combating activities and ideologies of terrorists in the country.
The action plan was developed to coordinate actions to deal with the threat of extremist ideology based on four cores, namely prevention, enforcement, rehabilitation and reinforcement.
It emphasises the threat of extremist ideologies, including political, racial, social, and religious extremism, as well as external elements, from a holistic perspective.
Speaking at the launch of MyPCVE today, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the plan needs to be strictly implemented and exposed to the people, especially when there are those in the country who use racial elements to threaten peace.
"Who would have thought that when we achieved independence in 1957, everyone was accepted; Malays, Chinese, Indians and then in 1963 together with Sabah and Sarawak, and then the May 13 event (in 1969) happened.
"Who would have thought that when we achieved independence in 1957, everyone was accepted — Malays, Chinese, Indians — and later in 1963, together with Sabah and Sarawak. But then, the May 13 event (in 1969) happened."
"We know that racial debates and tensions fuelled by political statements in past years, especially near elections, have now reached a very intense and dangerous level," he said.
Anwar said MyPCVE also needs to be reviewed, digested and implemented so that the authorities can identify the real motive behind every extremist ideology or terrorist attack.
"I always say in my meetings, including with the National Security Council, that sometimes we overlook (certain matters), focusing only against acts of terrorism and not on elements of incitement.
"The problem is our obsession with terrorism without understanding the real issues. We deal with the problem of terrorism but we don't understand the reasons and background behind the activities," he said.
Meanwhile, Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail stated that the action plan differs from those used in other countries, as it comprehensively addresses extremists' ideologies and incorporates principles, policies and values unique to Malaysia.
He said in addition to outlining strict enforcement measures, the plan also includes a soft approach in dealing with the issue of extremist ideology and terrorism.
“The ministry hopes the plan that will be used from 2024 to 2028 will succeed in helping to create peace and order in the country, God willing," he said.
— Bernama
