Malaysia wants to curb militant activities - Zahid

The arrest of 11 individuals believed to be members of a militant group is due to professional work of the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM).

Home Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi denied claims by certain quarters that the arrest would tarnish the good name of the country.

"We want to charge the suspected militants in court under the Security Offences (Special Measures) Act 2012 (SOSMA).

"This act was carried out in accordance with the law," he told reporters after a dinner to mark the 16th Immigration Department Sports Championship, at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), here Saturday night.

Ahmad Zahid said the government does not want 'Islamophobia' in Malaysia.

"We have to distinguish between militancy and Islamic teachings. The ministry does not want to portray all Muslims as terrorists."

He said the remaining members of the militant group would be hunted and eradicated to free this country of militants.