Sosma needed for national security, says Saifuddin Nasution

KUALA LUMPUR: The Security Offences (Special Measures) Act (Sosma) is still a relevant act to maintain national security and the government is committed to strengthen the law, says Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail.

He said Sosma is also important to maintain public order and the police need the law to take immediate action to avoid any threats to national sovereignty and harmony.

“The government is committed to improve the law to ensure national peace and security, but it has to be balanced with societal rights, as well as national peace and interests,” said Saifuddin in a written reply dated Feb 15.

Saifuddin said the ministry has held discussions and internal workshops to scrutinise suggestions to improve the law.

“Stakeholders, including NGOs, academics, community, and among others, will be involved in a feedback gathering session towards proposals to improve the law,” added Saifuddin.

Saifuddin was responding to RSN Rayer (PH-Jelutong), who asked the ministry to state steps taken to restudy provisions under Sosma that have received public criticisms.

In December last year, Saifuddin said the government had no intention of reviewing Sosma, which provides for preventive detention of up to 28 days.

Repealing Sosma was not among the pledges listed in Pakatan Harapan’s GE15 election manifesto.

Several DAP leaders have previously criticised Sosma as having draconian provisions.