Country needs SOSMA - Former AG

This country needs the Security Offences (Special Measures) Act 2012 (SOSMA) but it depends on how it is interpreted and implemented, says Tan Sri Abdul Gani Patail.

In his first public speaking event after being discontinued as attorney-general in July, he said the act was still needed to safeguard the country from any possible terrorism threat.

In concluding a forum entitled, 'Sosma - Wolf in Sheep's Clothing', Abdul Gani said Sosma was still in use and should be followed by all parties.

The forum was organised by the Bar Council at the council's building here tonight.

"The necessity of Sosma has been proven to be of much use, especially in the Lahad Datu case, as well as for the IS (Islamic State) investigations...no doubt, the controversy now is the extension of its use on other security offences prescribed under the fresh schedule of the act," he said.

Earlier in his speech, Abdul Gani said he was not able to speak and criticise SOSMA because he drafted it.