Government to establish 'A Counter-Messaging Center' - Reezal Merican

A ‘Counter-Messaging Center’ will be established to address the rampant anti-terrorism issue especially those involving IS militants.

Foreign Deputy Minister, Datuk Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican said that the center will also take into account the opinions of religious members and the Muslim community around the world.

“Through this “Counter-Messaging Center, Malaysia will share the information obtained with other countries.

“Apart from that, my discussion with Australia’s Justice Minister, Michael Keenan resulted in a co-operation with Australia which had offered their help to Malaysia in its effort to expand the Counter-Messaging Center,” said Reezal Merican to Astro AWANI today.

He said this after receiving a courtesy visit by Keenan to talk about a two-way cooperation at his office.

Of the issues discussed was on steps taken by Malaysia in overcoming the issue of anti-terrorism.

“This matter was also discussed during a meeting held between Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Najib Razak and Australian Prime Minister, Malcolm Turnbull on November 22.

“During the meeting, Malaysia had stated its participation in the Global Coalition Against ISIL,” he said.

Reezal Merican also said that the country also has a Southeast Asia Regional Centre for Counter- Terrorism (SEARCCT) which cooperates with Australian authorities in overcoming anti-terrorism issues.

“Through SEARCCT, Malaysian and Australian authorities shared their experience and information which could be used in overcoming violence,” said Reezal Merican.

He added that other ASEAN countries have also expressed their support towards the measures undertaken by the SEARCCT .

"We also welcome Australia’s cooperation in the efforts taken by SEARCCT to tackle anti-terrorism issues," he said.