Malaysia to host centre to counter spread of IS ideology, propaganda - Ahmad Zahid

Malaysia is to host a regional centre to counter the spread of 'Islamic State' ideology and propaganda via the Internet, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said today.

He said the Regional Digital Counter-Messaging Communication Centre (RDC3) would be set up soon.

The United States had chosen Malaysia, besides the United Arab Emirates, for the centre "because of our commitment, especially of the police, in countering the threat of international terrorism and cross-border criminal activities", he said.

"As many recruitments (into the IS) are being made through the social media, the centre is being set up to monitor all movements by terrorists or those with the potential to engage in terrorism," he told reporters after opening the 4th General Police and Special Equipment Exhibition and Conference Asia 2015 here.

Ahmad Zahid, who is also the home minister, said the centre would serve as a reference point for the countries of ASEAN, Australia, New Zealand and several other neighbouring countries.

Considering that shortage of asset was the main problem in the effort to douse the fires in Indonesia, Hishammuddin suggested the republic to seek the assistance of non-ASEAN member countries, like Japan.

"But it is not our call, but Indonesia. We can propose to them, and at the moment they are identifying, including Japan, to help. If that is not enough, we have to look beyond that," he added.

Meanwhile, Abdul Rahman, when met by reporters, said the ministry was prepared to deploy 1,200 personnel and assets, including helicopters, from the Fire and Rescue Department, to help douse the fires in Indonesia.

"We are now waiting for permission from the Indonesian government to send our firemen. We leave it to Prime Minister (Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak) to discuss the matter," he added.

He said if permission was granted, Malaysia would also send its Smart team to focus on rescue efforts, should the need arise.

"The use of aircraft to douse the fire is good, but what is most effective is by individuals at the site of the fire because the fire is under the peat soil and we need people to dig the soil to douse the flame," he added.