Government not reviving ISA - Zahid

The government is unlikely to revive the Internal Security Act (ISA) but will amend the existing acts or create a new act to address action by extremists.

Home Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the abolished ISA was not meant to detain those with differing political views but to maintain national security.

However, the government will take into account and study the views of some people who want to see the return of the ISA.

"What were said by several leaders including the Inspector General of Police can be considered but its not easy to revive the ISA," he told reporters after opening the 42nd National Rela Day celebration, here Saturday.

Zahid said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak had considered all views, including by former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad on the matter.

Dr Mahathir proposed the return of the ISA to address action by minority extremists out to destabilise the country.

Inspector General of Police Tan Sri Khalid Abu Bakar yesterday fully supported Dr Mahathir's suggestion that the government bring back the ISA to maintain security and public order.