Malaysia to gather experience from Saudi Arabia in handling IS

Malaysia, Indonesia and Brunei will meet with Saudi Arabia to gather its views and experience in handling Islamic State (IS) militants.

Defence Minister, Datuk Seri Hishammudin Tun Hussein said he and his counterparts from Indonesia and Brunei are scheduled to leave for Saudi Arabia at the end of this month.

“Three countries will leave for Saudi Arabia at the end of this month to discuss its experience in handling IS,” said Hishammuddin during a press conference held at Genting Highlands here today.

He added that the ministry is currently identifying areas at risk of terrorist attacks.

“The latest threat was in Sabah. The people did not know about this earlier and we did not manage handle it. We only took action after the incident took place,” said Hishammuddin.

He admitted that the attack in Jakarta was a worrying matter and should be addressed.

“The attack in Jakarta is in my thoughts, my worst fears has been realised if it is right that IS is involved,” said Hishammuddin.

Speaking on the ministry’s preparedness in handling IS, he said cooperation from various quarters is needed to ensure the country’s safety.

“We need to cooperate with the Royal Malaysian Police, intelligence, counter terrorism at the Special Branch and share our intelligence with other countries,” he said.

In an attack in Jakarta yesterday, at least seven people were killed, including five of the assailants, and 23 people were wounded.

READ: Jakarta attacks: All you need to know