Malaysia set to play vital role in curbing the spread of IS ideology

Malaysia is set to play an important role in combating and curbing the IS ideology with the establishment of a regional communication centre.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak said based on that, theologians and Islamic professionals will be mobilised to spread Islam in its true perspective through counter narrative measures especially through cyberspace.

He said military approach alone is insufficient in curbing the spread of IS ideology, instead it should be addressed with the true teachings of Islam.

“As you all know, Malaysia has announced the establishment of a message dissemination centre to combat the IS ideology and we will cooperate with other countries.

“We will gather theologians and Islamic scholars to play their role in spreading Islam in its true perspective,” he told a press conference at the conclusion of the 27th ASEAN Summit and related summits here on Sunday.

Realising the growing spread of the IS ideology through social media, Najib said the same platform should also be used in curbing the matter.

“We need to be more efficient in using the internet and the social media as we have yet to shine in that aspect. We need help in fixing the medium used in curbing the message,” he added.

Najib said that Russia and China have also expressed their willingness to cooperate in fighting against terrorism.