Nancy Shukri: No intention to bring back ISA

KUALA LUMPUR: The Government does not intend to revive the Internal Security Act (ISA), said Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Nancy Shukri (pic).

In a written reply in Parliament to Lipis MP Datuk Abdul Rahman Mohamad, Nancy responded to his question directed to the Prime Minister on whether the Government planned to revive the ISA to counter the "‘serious crimes" in the country.

"At the moment, the Government does not intend to revive the Internal Security Act (ISA) 1961," Nancy said Monday.

"This is because existing laws enacted at this point are sufficient to prevent any serious criminal activity in the country," she said.

On Oct 22, veteran DAP leader Lim Kit Siang had also asked Home Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi to provide the names of those investigated and charged under Sections 124B to 124N of the Penal Code for activities detrimental to parliamentary democracy.

The Gelang Patah MP also queried the measures taken to ensure there was no abuse in the use of the Section for “other agendas”.

In a written reply, it was revealed that seven individuals were being investigated in 10 cases under the section, which involved offences like threatening parliamentary democracy, espionage and sabotage.

However, only two have been accused of any wrongdoing so far.

"I do not intend to reveal more information on this matter, as some of these cases are still being investigated by the police and some are still in the trial process,” said Dr Ahmad Zahid.

With regards to possible abuse of power, Zahid stressed that a clear definition of the section was provided in the amendment in the Penal Code.

“That way, the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM) are able to carry out their duties with more accuracy according to the law, and the cases involved will still be brought to court for trial.

“No abuse of power will take place in any way, and the defense and rights of the accused are guaranteed,” he concluded.