The definition of The Prevention Of Terrorism Bill 2015 (POTA)

The following are the essence of the bill tabled for second reading today:

* A law to prevent the conduct or support for acts of violence involving terrorist organization of a foreign country and for the control of persons affected by such act.

* Ensure that no individual escape legislative action should they engage in terrorism.

* The Act ensures that the citizens and the country's security are not threatened by those involved in militant activities.

* On Nov 26, 2014, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak presented a white paper entitled "Towards Addressing Threats of Islamic State (IS) Groups" in Parliament in acknowledging the continued threat of violence within and outside the country.

* The white paper stressed the government's commitment in combating threats posed by IS with the international community.

* Based on the recommendation in paragraph 59 of the white paper, a new law will be enacted to specifically address the threat of IS.

* A police officer may without a warrant, arrest any person if he has reason to believe there are reasons that justify an inquiry be held into the case of the person.

* When a person is arrested, the case shall be referred by police officers to the public prosecutor for further instructions no later than seven days from the date of arrest.

* Any person who is arrested shall, unless discharged earlier, be brought before a magistrate within 24 hours

* No person shall be arrested and detained solely on his/her political belief or political activity.

* The executive powers of the minister in the ISA will be taken over by the Prevention of Violence Board, whose members are appointed by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong.