Anwar Ibrahim raises concern over teenagers being lured into terror groups, urging greater vigilance to safeguard Malaysia’s peace.

PUTRAJAYA, March 9 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today expressed concern over the involvement of school-going teenagers in terrorist group activities in Malaysia.

He said the revelation by Inspector-General of Police Mohd Khalid Ismail about the existence of such activities must be taken seriously, as it could stem from misguided upbringing or exposure.

“Recently, schoolchildren — even those in their teens — were found to be involved in preparations for acts of violence, as revealed by the Inspector-General of Police. Our children could have been misled through wrong upbringing or exposure at certain levels,” he said.

He said this while speaking at a gathering with staff of the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living in Putrajaya.

Also present were Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Armizan Mohd Ali and Chief Secretary to the Government Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar.

Mohd Khalid had earlier said police had foiled an attempt to revive the ideology of a terrorist group following the arrest of six youths, including three minors, during a recent special operation.

According to him, the suspects, aged between 16 and 21, were detained during a two-day operation launched by the Royal Malaysia Police Special Branch beginning February 14 across the Klang Valley, Johor, Kedah and Terengganu.

Anwar also urged Malaysians to remain united and safeguard the peace currently enjoyed in the country.

He said although the nation remains peaceful, the public should not become complacent, while national defence agencies must stay alert to face any possible threats.

“There are foreign elements that are jealous and want to interfere in our national political affairs. This should make us more vigilant,” he said. — Bernama