PRIME MINISTER Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has said extremist activities linked to the Islamic State group in Malaysia remain under control, crediting the vigilance and competence of the police, while warning that the threat has not disappeared.
Speaking at the official launch of the Mengkuang Titi Mosque in Kelapa Baras amid a Nurul al-Quran celebration, Anwar urged Malaysians to remain cautious and proactive in addressing the risks of radicalisation, particularly among young people.
He stressed that the public must not underestimate the danger posed by extremist ideologies, even if authorities have so far managed to contain the problem.
“We must not be complacent and careless. Our children must be equipped with knowledge, explanation, clarification and awareness because without knowledge, they are susceptible to negative influences,” he said.
Anwar was referring to a statement by Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Mohd Khalid Ismail a day earlier revealing that six Malaysian youths, including three minors, were suspected of involvement in activities linked to the Islamic State militant group.
According to the prime minister, the youths had been influenced and incited by external actors.
“So, we must learn from what is happening around us,” he said, citing ongoing tensions in the Middle East following attacks on Iran by Israel and the United States.
Anwar warned that strongly held opinions and escalating disputes could easily lead to social division if not managed responsibly.
He noted that various contentious issues continue to surface in the country, ranging from religious disputes to political disagreements.
“Every day we will hear issues, such as the issue with the temple, or pig farming, or disagreements between politics and parties — all sorts of issues are raised,” he said.
Despite such challenges, Anwar said Malaysia remains the subject of envy among some countries because it has largely preserved stability and peace.
“Our economy is good, growth is good — but who said we do not have issues?” he said.
He acknowledged that Malaysians continue to face real difficulties, including rising living costs, inadequate school facilities and communities still lacking essential infrastructure such as mosques.
“There are still issues we need to resolve but these issues cannot be resolved if our country is not peaceful,” he said.
Drawing comparisons with conflict zones abroad, Anwar said the contrast highlights the importance of safeguarding Malaysia’s stability.
“In Iran and Gaza, mosques are being destroyed, whereas in Malaysia the government is still building them,” he said.
“This is why we must protect the peace of our country and take a moderate leadership approach, so that we can pay attention to what is needed by the people.” – March 7, 2026
