Zahid: We will not tolerate terror financiers

PUTRAJAYA: Stern legal action will be taken against Malaysians who are found guilty of participating in terrorist-funding activities, said Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi Thursday.

"We do not tolerate any attempt to fund internal or international terrorist activities," said the Home Minister.

"We will ensure that illegal funding not be given to individuals or organisations for the purpose of terrorism."

Zahid said police are working with Interpol and other international intelligence agencies to investigate the validity of a report published in an Australian newspaper, claiming that some RM110,300 was transferred to an unnamed Malaysian by an Australian money-remitting agency.

"Police started investigations into the matter after being alerted by our Australian counterparts, even before the news was published.

"If proven true, we will leave it to our Australian counterparts to take further action against those involved," he said.

Dr Ahmad Zahid gave his assurance to Australian authorities that no compromise will be made on the matter, in accordance with the Anti-Money Laundering and Anti-Terrorist Financing Act.

In KUALA LUMPUR, Defence Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Tun Hussein said the Ministry will investigate the alleged money transfer.

He said the Ministry viewed such links seriously, especially in the context of Abu Sayyaf, which has pledged its allegiance to the Islamic State.

"We are concerned especially for the security of Sabah given its close proximity to the southern Philippines.

"We will investigate the money transfer and any terror link," he told a press conference on Thursday.

He added the Ministry had been keeping close tabs on any terror development.

"I have been getting daily intelligence reports on the matter. We will get to the bottom of this," said Hishammuddin.

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