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Focus Malaysia
10-07-2025
- Politics
- Focus Malaysia
Digital Jihad and Malaysia's silent threat
THE dismantling of the Bangladeshi Radical Militant Group (GMRB) in Malaysia has brought into sharp focus the evolving nature of extremist threats facing the country. This group, composed of 100 to 150 Bangladeshi nationals working in Malaysia's labour sectors, had been secretly raising funds and recruiting on behalf of the Islamic State (IS) in Syria and Bangladesh. According to Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Mohd Khalid Ismail, members paid an annual RM500 fee, with additional voluntary contributions based on income levels. These funds were transferred abroad using e-wallet apps and money transfer services, while WhatsApp and Telegram were used to recruit and coordinate activities. Although Malaysia has long been seen as a stable and moderate country, the 2025 Global Terrorism Index (GTI) paints a more troubling picture. The GTI reports that terrorist activity is again on the rise globally, with 66 countries experiencing at least one attack in 2024, up from 58 the previous year. Fatalities increased by 11%, signaling a reversal of the decade-long decline in global terrorism. While Malaysia remains relatively low-risk compared to global hotspots, the presence of radical cells like GMRB reveals early warning signs that should not be ignored. From coordinated cells to lone-wolf actors (Image: Tech Wire Asia) One of the GTI's most concerning findings is the rise of lone-wolf attacks in Western nations. Over the past five years, 93% of deadly attacks in those countries were carried out by individuals acting alone, often radicalised entirely online without direct contact with formal terror networks. Although Malaysia has not experienced such attacks at scale, the underlying risk factors are present: increased access to extremist content, a polarised political environment, and a disillusioned youth demographic. In the UK, minors made up 42% of terrorism-related arrests in 2024, often after exposure to radical ideologies in online communities such as Discord, Telegram, and even gaming platforms. Similar patterns are emerging in Europe and North America. Malaysia must brace for the likelihood of ideology-driven individuals operating under the radar, radicalised not in physical camps but in virtual echo chambers. Technology and the rise of digital extremism The operational transformation of terrorist organisations is another critical dimension. Groups like Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISK) have embraced artificial intelligence, encrypted messaging apps, and multilingual propaganda to become digitally savvy and transnational. These advancements allow recruitment, planning, and propaganda to flourish beyond physical borders and often undetected. Malaysia's high internet penetration, widespread smartphone usage, and young population make it a ripe environment for such digital infiltration. The anonymity offered by cryptocurrencies and encrypted communications allows extremists to operate with little fear of surveillance. This necessitates a digital-first security response one that includes AI-driven content monitoring, cyber patrol units, and collaboration with major tech companies to remove harmful content. Digital literacy must also be prioritised. Educating youth on recognising online radicalisation tactics is as vital as deploying cybersecurity infrastructure. Malaysia's counterterrorism framework needs to evolve to match the pace and sophistication of today's digital threats. Lessons from the Sahel and South Asia While the Western focus has shifted to lone actors, the Sahel region in Africa remains the epicentre of mass terror attacks, accounting for over half of all terrorism-related deaths in 2024. The causes fragile governance, poverty, ethnic tension, and resource conflict also exist in varying degrees across Southeast Asia, including Malaysia. The Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) is now the fastest-growing terror group globally, with fatalities rising by 90% in 2024. Meanwhile, groups like Abu Sayyaf and Jemaah Islamiyah maintain historical ties and operational networks in the region. Malaysia's geography particularly its porous maritime borders in Sabah, Sarawak, and northern Peninsular Malaysia poses additional risks, especially in areas with limited state presence and socioeconomic disparities. To prevent these regional dynamics from taking root domestically, Malaysia must strengthen cross-border intelligence sharing, upgrade maritime security, and increase governmental engagement in remote and vulnerable regions. The youth factor: A battlefield of ideas (Image: University of Southampton) Perhaps the most urgent insight from the GTI is the increasing role of youth in global terror networks. One in five terror suspects in the West is under the age of 18. Many are seduced by hybrid ideologies that blend grievances with extremist narratives. Malaysia's youthful population, often digitally native and politically disengaged, is not immune to this trend. Counter-radicalisation strategies must therefore extend beyond law enforcement. The Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Youth and Sports should be deeply involved in national security planning. School curricula should be updated to include media literacy, critical thinking, and interfaith dialogue, equipping students to resist radical influences. Additionally, Malaysia must enhance de-radicalisation and reintegration programs. Former extremists, particularly youth, need viable paths back into society. Otherwise, harsh punitive measures risk fueling further resentment and isolation, potentially reinforcing radical beliefs. A strategic moment for prevention Malaysia's current position on the Global Terrorism Index gives it a window of opportunity. Unlike nations already entrenched in extremist violence, Malaysia can still act preventively. But the signs are increasingly clear: digital radicalisation, youth vulnerability, border security gaps, and ideological polarisation are growing threats. The GTI 2025 is more than a data snapshot; it's a strategic alarm bell. It shows that terrorism today is decentralised, digital, and disturbingly youthful. Malaysia must respond with a forward-looking strategy that integrates technology, education, and cross-border cooperation. Waiting for a crisis to trigger reform would be a grave mistake. The fight against terrorism is no longer confined to battlefields or training camps it is now waged online, in schools, and within fractured communities. The time to act is now, while the threats remain preventable rather than inevitable. ‒ July 10, 2025 R . Paneir Selvam is the principal consultant of Arunachala Research & Consultancy Sdn Bhd, a think tank specialising in strategic national and geopolitical matters. The views expressed are solely of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Focus Malaysia. Main image :
CNA
06-07-2025
- Politics
- CNA
Bangladesh vows full cooperation with Malaysia over arrest, deportation of suspects over militant activity
DHAKA: Bangladesh has vowed full cooperation to Malaysian authorities and sought more information, following the arrest of 36 Bangladeshi nationals in a recent security operation targeting alleged involvement in the Bangladeshi Radical Militant Group (GMRB). 'The Bangladesh government is closely monitoring the developments, and the Bangladesh High Commission in Kuala Lumpur is in close communication with the relevant Malaysian authorities, and will extend necessary support to the expatriate Bangladeshis wherever needed,' the Foreign Affairs Ministry said in a statement issued on Saturday (Jul 5), quoted by local media. The ministry also reiterated Dhaka's firm stance against all forms of terrorism, violent extremism and militancy, and said it remains ready to cooperate fully with Malaysian authorities in the matter. Malaysia's Inspector General of Police Mohd Khalid Ismail had earlier said that the group of Bangladeshis arrested in Malaysia was suspected of sending funds to Islamic State (IS) cells in Syria and Bangladesh, according to local news platform bdnews24. At a press conference on Friday, Mohd Khalid said the 36 Bangladeshi nationals were arrested in a series of operations conducted since April. Most of them were employed in factories, construction sites, or the service sector. Of those, five have been formally charged, while investigations are ongoing against several others. The rest were in the process of being deported, according to Bangladesh anti-terrorism chief Akkas Uddin Bhuiyan, as quoted in bdnews24. Later that day, three Bangladeshi nationals, deported from Malaysia on suspicion of involvement in militant activities, were arrested and detained after they arrived home. The three men now in Bangladeshi custody were among those who were sent back. They were arrested under Section 54 of the Code of Criminal Procedure and produced before the court on the same day. The court subsequently ordered their detention in jail, according to Akkas, as reported by bdnews24. Bangladesh's Home Affairs Adviser Jahangir Alam Chowdhury reportedly dismissed claims that the recent deportation of suspected extremists from Malaysia indicated the presence of terrorist activity in the country, claiming visa overstays instead for the three citizens deported. 'There is no militant activity in Bangladesh. With your cooperation, we've rooted out militancy,' he was quoted saying by Dhaka-based broadsheet The Daily Star. He added that any such allegations could be used to apply external pressure or stigmatise the country. Chowdhury said Malaysia's claim of a radical militant movement was still being verified, and that no official communication had confirmed the individuals were involved in militancy. 'Our foreign ministry has already issued a press release clarifying the situation. As far as we know, three individuals were deported due to overstaying their visas," he reportedly said. News of the arrests first emerged on Jun 27, when Malaysia's Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail announced that 36 Bangladeshi nationals had been detained on suspicion of extremism. Mohd Khalid said the police's special branch first detected the group through a number of Facebook accounts actively sharing IS-related content, all traced back to internet protocol (IP) addresses originating in Malaysia. Khalid said members paid RM500 (US$118) annually to the Bangladesh 'radical militant movement' in membership fees. The police also have detected between 100 and 150 individuals who are involved in the WhatsApp group, according to the Malay Mail.
CNA
06-07-2025
- Politics
- CNA
Bangladesh vows full cooperation with Malaysia over arrest, deportation of suspected extremists
DHAKA: Bangladesh has vowed full cooperation to Malaysian authorities and sought more information, following the arrest of 36 Bangladeshi nationals in a recent security operation targeting alleged involvement in the Bangladeshi Radical Militant Group (GMRB). 'The Bangladesh government is closely monitoring the developments, and the Bangladesh High Commission in Kuala Lumpur is in close communication with the relevant Malaysian authorities, and will extend necessary support to the expatriate Bangladeshis wherever needed,' it said in a statement issued on Saturday (Jul 5), quoted by local media. The ministry also reiterated Dhaka's firm stance against all forms of terrorism, violent extremism and militancy, and said it remains ready to cooperate fully with Malaysian authorities in the matter. Malaysia's Inspector General of Police Mohd Khalid Ismail had earlier said that the group of Bangladeshis arrested in Malaysia was suspected of sending funds to Islamic State (IS) cells in Syria and Bangladesh, according to local news platform bdnews24. At a press conference on Friday, Ismail said the 36 Bangladeshi nationals were arrested in a series of operations conducted since April. Most of them were employed in factories, construction sites, or the service sector. Of those, five have been formally charged, while investigations are ongoing against several others. The rest were in the process of being deported, according to Bangladesh anti-terrorism chief Akkas Uddin Bhuiyan, as quoted in bdnews24. Later that day, three Bangladeshi nationals, deported from Malaysia on suspicion of involvement in militant activities, were arrested and detained after they arrived home. The three men now in Bangladeshi custody were among those who were sent back. They were arrested under Section 54 of the Code of Criminal Procedure and produced before the court on the same day. The court subsequently ordered their detention in jail, according to Akkas, as reported by bdnews24. Bangladesh's Home Affairs Adviser Jahangir Alam Chowdhury reportedly dismissed claims that the recent deportation of suspected extremists from Malaysia indicated the presence of terrorist activity in the country, claiming visa overstays instead for the three citizens deported. 'There is no militant activity in Bangladesh. With your cooperation, we've rooted out militancy,' he was quoted saying by Dhaka-based broadsheet The Daily Star. He added that any such allegations could be used to apply external pressure or stigmatise the country. Chowdhury said Malaysia's claim of a radical militant movement was still being verified, and that no official communication had confirmed the individuals were involved in militancy. 'Our foreign ministry has already issued a press release clarifying the situation. As far as we know, three individuals were deported due to overstaying their visas," he reportedly said. News of the arrests first emerged on Jun 27, when Malaysia's Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail announced that 36 Bangladeshi nationals had been detained on suspicion of extremism. Mohd Khalid said the police's special branch first detected the group through a number of Facebook accounts actively sharing IS-related content, all traced back to internet protocol (IP) addresses originating in Malaysia. Khalid said members paid RM500 annually to the Bangladesh 'radical militant movement' in membership fees.
Malay Mail
06-07-2025
- Politics
- Malay Mail
Bangladesh to cooperate fully with Malaysia in GMRB militant group investigation
KUALA LUMPUR, July 6 — Bangladesh has pledged full cooperation to Malaysian authorities following the arrest of 36 Bangladeshi nationals in a recent security operation targeting alleged involvement in the Bangladeshi Radical Militant Group (GMRB). The Bangladesh Foreign Affairs Ministry said that the Bangladesh High Commission in Kuala Lumpur promptly engaged with the relevant Malaysian authorities and formally requested the identities of the individuals as well as information regarding the allegations brought against them. Five of the individuals have been formally charged in Malaysian courts, while the rest are undergoing further investigation or deportation processes, the ministry said in a statement yesterday. "The Bangladesh government is closely monitoring the developments, and the Bangladesh High Commission in Kuala Lumpur is in close communication with the relevant Malaysian authorities and will extend necessary support to the expatriate Bangladeshis wherever needed,' it said. The ministry also reiterated Bangladesh's firm stance against all forms of terrorism, violent extremism, and militancy, reaffirming its commitment to cooperate fully with Malaysian authorities in this regard. Yesterday, Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Mohd Khalid Ismail reportedly said that police initially detected the group's activities through social media accounts operated by Bangladeshi nationals using Malaysian IP addresses to spread IS ideology. He said a three-phase operation between April and June led to the arrest of 36 Bangladeshi Radical Militant Group (GMRB) members, including their leader, dismantling the group's Johor-based network. — Bernama
Borneo Post
05-07-2025
- Borneo Post
Bangladeshi militant group crippled
Ahmad Ramdzan presenting the award to the best academic participant at the event. KOTA KINABALU (July 5): The Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM) has confirmed that the Bangladeshi Radical Militant Group (GMRB) has been successfully crippled following a series of raids and operations in Peninsular Malaysia since April. Bukit Aman Special Branch I Deputy Director, Datuk Ahmad Ramdzan Daud, said all identified members of the group have been arrested. 'So far, I can say that the Bangladeshi militant group, GMRB, has been crippled. However, we believe there may still be other militant elements that have yet to be detected, and we will continue monitoring the situation closely,' he said. Ahmad Ramdzan made the statement at the Police Basic Training Programme (PULAPOL) Graduation Parade, Series 5/2025, held at the Sabah Police Contingent Headquarters (IPK) in Kepayan on Saturday. He highlighted that one of the major challenges in combating radical groups like GMRB is their use of social media to recruit members and spread extremist ideologies. 'Some members of GMRB were recruited through social media platforms, which have become powerful tools for the covert dissemination of radical views. We need to strengthen our technological and cyber-monitoring capabilities to detect these activities early,' he said. While acknowledging social media's role in public engagement, Ahmad Ramdzan warned that it is also being manipulated by foreign militant elements. 'Social media can serve as the eyes and ears of the public for law enforcement, but at the same time, it is exploited for extremism. We remain committed to our responsibilities, with a strong focus on community service,' he added. At the event, a total of 200 trainees completed their six-month police training, which comprised three core modules — Policing Transformation, Mindset Transformation and Policing Management.
