Sosma still needed for security, says Saifuddin

THE Security Offences (Special Measures) Act (Sosma) will be strengthened as it is still relevant for maintaining national security, says Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail.

The Home Minister said Sosma is also important to maintain public order, and the police need the law to take prompt action to avoid any threats to national sovereignty and harmony.

“The government is committed to improving the law to ensure peace and security, but it has to be balanced with societal rights,” he said in a written reply.

Saifuddin said they had held discussions and internal workshops to scrutinise suggestions to improve the law.

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

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 criticism.

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 under Pakatan Harapan’s 15th General Election manifesto.