Pota is needed now, say Barisan MPs

PETALING JAYA: Barisan Nasional MPs believe this is the right time to enforce the proposed Prevention of Terrorism Act, especially in face of threats from the Islamic State (IS).

Pengerang MP Datuk Seri Azalina Othman said that compared to other countries, Malaysia was in fact late in implementing the proposed Act.

“For example, Singapore had this Act earlier. We should have brought this up around that time because threats were ongoing, especially those related to IS.

“Anyone can have the intention to disrupt our country’s peace and this should be stopped.

“If the Government wants to do any amendment, it can be done later. But let it be utilised first and eventually, be embraced by all,” she said.

Titiwangsa MP Datuk Johari Abdul Ghani said he was fully supportive of the Bill, adding that it was what the country needed at the moment.

“IS and other negative ideologies are slowly getting attention from our citizens.

“As of now, we have to accept the proposed Act entirely to make it really effective in handling the situation. Maybe after a few years, we can review the law or some clauses under the Act,” he said.

Masjid Tanah MP Datuk Mas Ermieyati Samsudin said Malaysia had to take preventive steps against terrorist activities.

“It is scary to see young girls from Malaysia being recruited by terrorists. I suggest letting the proposed Act be carried out first and see how it goes.

“There is no need for Opposition MPs to suggest up to 35 amendments as the Home Minister has done a good job in explaining it to the MPs,” she said.

Hulu Selangor MP P. Kamalanathan said the Bill was passed as a result of necessity, adding that unlike conventional wars, terrorists operated on a different scale of secrecy.

“This is geared specifically to neutralise this very dangerous and easily camouflaged threat,” said Kamalanathan, who is also Deputy Education Minister.