THE use of preventive laws such as the Prevention of Crime Act 1959 (Poca) is being considered to deal with cult groups, says Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail (pic).
In a parliamentary written reply, the Home Minister said this is because punitive laws may not holistically resolve such issues due to technical legal challenges, similar to those faced by preventive laws.
“Should amendments to the Act (Poca) be necessary, the ministry will take appropriate action, including engaging with relevant stakeholders,” he said in response to a question from Datuk Shamsulkahar Mohd Deli (BN-Jempol) yesterday.
Shamsulkahar had asked whether the government had any intention to enact new laws to curb and address the activities of cult groups such as Global Ikhwan Services and Business Holdings Sdn Bhd (GISB).
Saifuddin Nasution said as the ministry responsible for overseeing domestic security and public order, it remains committed to reviewing and improving all laws under its jurisdiction, including those related to security offences.
The ministry, he added, will continue to support national reforms based on values of compassion, well-being, confidence and sustainability to ensure the aspirations of the Malaysia Madani Agenda are achieved.
In September, the police said they were investigating the allegations against GISB related to religious issues and child exploitation, among others.
Additionally, Saifuddin Nasution said the government has launched the Malaysian Action Plan for Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism (MyPCVE), which outlines four main pillars, 15 strategic focus areas, 59 initiatives and 60 key performance indicators.
“The government believes this plan will effectively prevent the spread of extremist ideologies among Malaysians,” he added.
