ULU TIRAM, MALAYSIA – The recent tragic event on May 17th in Ulu Tiram, where two police officers were killed in a violent attack by a lone wolf domestic terrorist, has once again highlighted the ongoing threat of violent extremism in the country. The Inspector-General of Police, Tan Sri Razarudin Husain, stated that the terrorist had carefully planned the attack despite acting alone.
Initial reports linking the attacker to the violent extremist group Jemaah Islamiyah were later clarified by the authorities to be linked to the lone wolf’s father. Despite being labeled as a “low-level” incident, security experts emphasize the importance of not underestimating the risks of violent extremism in Malaysia.
Experts in terrorism, such as R Paneir Selvam, stress that incidents like these should not be viewed in isolation. Malaysia has faced domestic terrorism in the past, with incidents such as the attack on the Batu Pahat police station in Johor and the attempt to steal weapons from the Guar Chempedak police station in Kedah.
In recent years, Malaysia has also grappled with the challenge of individuals showing support for groups like ISIS. The presence of ISIS sympathizers in the country has raised concerns about the spread of violent extremism and the need for vigilant monitoring and intelligence efforts by the authorities.
To address the root causes of violent terrorism, experts suggest a focus on tackling the distorted ideologies that fuel extremism. Religious and ideological factors play a significant role in influencing individuals towards violent extremism, highlighting the importance of addressing these underlying issues.
Deputy Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Zahid Hamidi has called for increased surveillance and intelligence efforts to combat terrorist activities in the country. The government must take decisive action to prevent the resurgence of violent extremism and promote a society that rejects extremist ideologies.
By understanding the potential link between non-violent extremism and violent extremism, Malaysia can work towards preventing the spread of radical ideologies that pose a threat to national security. Addressing the underlying causes of extremism and promoting a balanced approach to governance are crucial steps in safeguarding the country against the dangers of violent extremism.