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Free Malaysia Today
6 days ago
- Politics
- Free Malaysia Today
Keep low profile when in Malaysia, IGP advises Palestinians
Inspector-General of Police Khalid Ismail said the police were prepared to handle external threats that could affect national security, including 'any agenda brought by foreign intelligence agencies'. PETALING JAYA : Inspector-General of Police Khalid Ismail has advised Palestinians to keep a low profile when in Malaysia to avoid being targeted by foreign intelligence agencies. Khalid said the police were always prepared to handle external threats that could affect national security, including 'any agenda brought by foreign intelligence agencies'. He said there were two cases recently which police suspected had been masterminded by foreign spies, namely the case of the Israeli caught in possession of firearms last year, and the kidnapping of a Palestinian three years ago. 'To ensure the safety of Palestinians residing in Malaysia, we advise them to keep a low profile to avoid becoming targets (of foreign intelligence agencies). We also advise them to report to the police if they notice any suspicious behaviour towards them,' he said in a statement. Khalid said the police were working closely with the immigration department, the Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency, and Interpol to monitor foreigners entering Malaysia. He said the police gave serious attention to foreigners who had long resided in Malaysia, including permanent residents or those here for business, such as foreign consultants. 'The police also continue to forge strategic collaborations with other national security agencies through the exchange of information and views. We remain committed to ensuring Malaysia's security and preserving the welfare of the people,' he said. Yesterday, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said threats posed by international intelligence agencies, including Israel's Mossad, had long been recognised. Anwar said it had been confirmed that Mossad had a presence here and had recruited or worked with locals as agents or accomplices. In February, Israeli national Avitan Shalom was jailed for seven years after pleading guilty to possessing 200 rounds of ammunition and six firearms without a permit. The weapons and ammunition were discovered in a hotel room on Jalan Ampang between 6.46pm on March 26 and 6pm on March 28, 2024. Earlier this month, six men were imprisoned for five years after pleading guilty to abducting and confining a Palestinian man in September 2022.
Malay Mail
6 days ago
- Politics
- Malay Mail
IGP warns of foreign operatives threat, urges caution for Palestinians in Malaysia
KUALA LUMPUR, July 23 — Police have confirmed they are investigating cases linked to foreign intelligence agencies in Malaysia, as security is tightened to counter external threats and safeguard Palestinians residing in the country. In a statement today, Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Mohd Khalid Ismail said the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) remains fully committed to protecting national security and sovereignty amid suspected foreign interference. 'There have been incidents reported and investigated by PDRM believed to have been orchestrated by foreign intelligence entities,' he said. 'Among them are two cases: one involving the kidnapping of a Palestinian national, and another involving the possession of six firearms — both allegedly linked to foreign operatives.' Mohd Khalid said police are closely monitoring the entry of foreign nationals, working in coordination with key agencies such as the Immigration Department, the Border Control and Protection Agency and Interpol. 'The Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) remains vigilant in its efforts to prevent and address various external threats that could jeopardise national security,' he said. 'This includes any agendas driven by foreign intelligence agencies that may attempt to interfere with or undermine the country's stability and sovereignty.' The IGP also advised Palestinians living in Malaysia to maintain a low profile to avoid being targeted. 'Palestinians are advised to maintain a low profile to avoid becoming targeted individuals, and to report any suspicious activity to the police,' he said in the statement. As part of its long-term strategy, he added that PDRM is strengthening cooperation with both local and international agencies through continuous intelligence sharing. 'PDRM is also engaged in strategic collaboration with relevant government agencies involved in national security through continuous exchange of information and perspectives at both national and international levels,' he said in the statement. The IGP's statement underscores Malaysia's broader concern over foreign actors operating within its borders, particularly in light of heightened geopolitical tensions and covert activity in the region. 'PDRM remains committed to ensuring the security of Malaysia and the wellbeing of its people,' he added.
Malay Mail
6 days ago
- Politics
- Malay Mail
IGP: Foreign intelligence behind kidnapping, firearms cases in Malaysia, Palestinians urged to stay low-key
KUALA LUMPUR, July 23 — Police have confirmed they are investigating cases linked to foreign intelligence agencies in Malaysia, as security is tightened to counter external threats and safeguard Palestinians residing in the country. In a statement today, Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Mohd Khalid Ismail said the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) remains fully committed to protecting national security and sovereignty amid suspected foreign interference. 'There have been incidents reported and investigated by PDRM believed to have been orchestrated by foreign intelligence entities,' he said. 'Among them are two cases: one involving the kidnapping of a Palestinian national, and another involving the possession of six firearms — both allegedly linked to foreign operatives.' Mohd Khalid said police are closely monitoring the entry of foreign nationals, working in coordination with key agencies such as the Immigration Department, the Border Control and Protection Agency and Interpol. 'The Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) remains vigilant in its efforts to prevent and address various external threats that could jeopardise national security,' he said. 'This includes any agendas driven by foreign intelligence agencies that may attempt to interfere with or undermine the country's stability and sovereignty.' The IGP also advised Palestinians living in Malaysia to maintain a low profile to avoid being targeted. 'Palestinians are advised to maintain a low profile to avoid becoming targeted individuals, and to report any suspicious activity to the police,' he said in the statement. As part of its long-term strategy, he added that PDRM is strengthening cooperation with both local and international agencies through continuous intelligence sharing. 'PDRM is also engaged in strategic collaboration with relevant government agencies involved in national security through continuous exchange of information and perspectives at both national and international levels,' he said in the statement. The IGP's statement underscores Malaysia's broader concern over foreign actors operating within its borders, particularly in light of heightened geopolitical tensions and covert activity in the region. 'PDRM remains committed to ensuring the security of Malaysia and the wellbeing of its people,' he added.
Russia Today
11-06-2025
- Business
- Russia Today
Spies and ties: The quiet war for Russia's business elite
Behind velvet ropes and closed doors, Russia's elite business clubs promise more than just high-level networking. They're where deals are made, partnerships are forged, and – sometimes – secrets are traded. With rigid membership rules, costly entry fees, and an atmosphere of confidentiality, these exclusive circles attract ambitious entrepreneurs, government insiders, and, increasingly, foreign intelligence operatives. What draws so many to these hidden spaces of influence? And why have they become fertile ground not only for commerce – but for covert surveillance? RT investigates the inner workings of Russia's most prestigious business communities, who gets in, what it costs, and why the stakes have never been higher. The concept of private business clubs isn't new. The earliest iterations appeared in England in the late 17th and early 18th centuries and soon made their way across Europe. By 1770, Russia had founded its own version – the English Assembly in St. Petersburg – modeled after its British predecessors. Fast forward to today, and Russia is home to hundreds of business clubs. While some operate with rigid rules and clearly defined missions, others function more like loose communities with minimal obligations. Their formats vary, but exclusivity remains a common thread. There are women-only clubs, industry-specific alliances, networks for resellers, and even spaces tailored to small business owners. Each has its own identity, philosophy, and code of conduct – but all are built on one defining principle: not just anyone can get in. Membership isn't just about rubbing shoulders with fellow entrepreneurs. It's about security – both literal and reputational. 'Almost all modern business clubs are closed to the public. That's primarily for the safety of our members. We conduct stringent security checks,' said Daria Titkova, marketing director at Club 500, in an interview with RT. Club 500 markets itself as a safe, scam-free zone where trust is paramount. 'There's a strong sense of trust here – no one's trying to cheat anyone. That's what sets us apart'Daria Titkova But the price of entry is steep. Joining an elite club isn't as simple as signing up. Candidates face rigorous vetting, including background checks and financial reviews. Typically, a company's annual revenue is the key metric. At Club 500, for example, prospective members must show yearly revenues of at least 100 million rubles (roughly $1.1 million). The entry fee alone starts at 1 million rubles. And even that doesn't guarantee you're in for good – members can be expelled if they're labeled 'toxic' by the community, sometimes after just a handful of complaints. Membership size varies widely. Some clubs are intimate, capped at 50 hand-picked members. Others, like the Russian Directors' Club, boast sprawling rosters – in this case, over 310,000 members nationwide. Access to these networks often comes with invitations to curated social events, but the mingling doesn't stop at cocktails and dinners. Even in relaxed settings, business is always on the table – whether it's hammering out deals, solving problems, or launching new ventures. One of the most popular formats for member interaction is the 'forum group' or 'mastermind' session. These gatherings give members the chance to workshop their business problems with a panel of peers from various industries – a kind of crowdsourced consultancy powered by experience. 'Entrepreneurs feel most comfortable around others who share their mindset. That's how social capital is formed. In times of sanctions, collaboration is key to survival and growth' Anastasia Ugarova, founder of the Network of Leaders, a high-profile business and government community The Network of Leaders isn't just for CEOs. It brings together entrepreneurs, public officials, academics, and policy thinkers – a cross-section of what Ugarova calls Russia's 'business and intellectual elite.' According to her, these groups often serve as launchpads for policy initiatives aimed at supporting the country's private sector. With Western markets increasingly out of reach due to sanctions, Russian businesspeople are recalibrating. The focus now: Asia and the Global South. 'Russian manufacturers are eager to expand into foreign markets like India and China,' said Yulia Koroleva, CEO of The Institute of Reputation, a communications agency. 'The old model – buy in Europe, sell in Russia – is obsolete. The rules have changed'Yulia Koroleva She noted a growing number of international clubs and women-led networks emerging across BRICS countries. These new alliances are still in early stages, but many entrepreneurs are betting that deeper ties with Asia could be key to long-term success. While these clubs are designed to cultivate entrepreneurship and high-level networking, they've also become increasingly attractive to foreign intelligence agencies. In fact, some of the most exclusive networks have quietly turned into prime environments for surveillance and recruitment. One such group is the Young Presidents Organization (YPO), a prominent international business network that was declared an 'undesirable organization' by Russia's Prosecutor General's Office. The authorities allege the group has engaged in covert efforts to recruit Russian entrepreneurs and gather strategic economic intelligence under the cover of professional exchange. 'Business clubs are ideal hunting grounds for intelligence services,' said Igor Ivanishko, a professor at the Russian State University of Justice. 'They're closed spaces, full of influential people. And conversations there tend to be unusually candid.' He noted that many participants have ties to political or military circles – a fact that only raises their value in the eyes of foreign operatives. 'Sometimes members don't even realize they've become sources of sensitive information,' he explained. 'Other times, the recruitment is deliberate.' Mid-tier clubs are of particular interest, especially those that attract IT specialists, technical experts, and AI developers. Intelligence services – and large multinational corporations – often see these informal communities as fertile ground for economic and technological espionage. Despite official scrutiny, individuals once affiliated with YPO continue to play visible roles in Russia's elite business scene. One notable figure is Yaroslav Glazunov, founder of the private Moscow club 'Jinto,' who was previously a member of the organization. While YPO's formal presence in Russia has been curtailed, its former members – and the ideas and connections cultivated through the group – remain embedded in the country's entrepreneurial ecosystem. For observers and security officials alike, that quiet continuity raises questions about what influence truly lingers behind the scenes.
Sky News
19-05-2025
- Politics
- Sky News
Home Secretary pledges new powers to target foreign intelligence agencies seeking to recruit 'criminals and misfits'
The Home Secretary has pledged to introduce new powers to ban foreign intelligence agencies seeking to recruit "criminals, proxy groups, misfits and private investigators" in the UK. Yvette Cooper said the government would emulate counter-terrorism legislation to plug gaps in areas including proscription to ban organisations such as the Iranian Revolutionary Guard (IRGC). It comes after a government watchdog said new powers should create a "banned list" of foreign intelligence agencies seeking to recruit for their work in the UK and abroad. Other recommendations include outlawing "inviting support" for banned foreign intelligence services, greater stop and search powers, and the removal of suspects' passports, in an echo of the current terrorism legislation. Foreign agents and their allies who use the UK to prepare activity on targets abroad would also be criminalised. It comes after six Bulgarians were jailed for conducting surveillance operations on diplomats, dissidents, journalists and Ukrainian soldiers in the UK and Europe on behalf of Russian intelligence. Three men have also recently been charged over the alleged targeting of journalists at the Iran International TV station in London, the third such criminal case involving the opposition broadcaster in two years. Jonathan Hall KC, the independent reviewer of state threat legislation, said the government "needs to do even more to warn the public about the risk posed by the most dangerous foreign intelligence services". The foreign agencies would be "put on notice" that their "operations, and minions and influence networks, are at greater risk of executive action, by way of arrest and prosecution, or deportation, or other forms of disruption, from UK authorities," Mr Hall said. He said it was "striking" how Ken McCallum, the director general of MI5, had recently directly addressed members of the public "getting into cahoots with spies". "Since there is no way for the authorities to be everywhere - and nor would we want them to be - all those criminals, proxy groups, misfits and private investigators who might be tempted to assist should be alerted to the most dangerous organisations," Mr Hall said. 2:29 While few foreign intelligence services will ever act openly, the fact that such organisations actively aspire to damage national security should be "prominently exposed for public consumption," he added. Exposure would lead to a "harder operating environment" in which state entities would have less confidence in finding willing or unwitting assistance to carry out plans, securing finance or providing accommodation. "Naming and shaming" in a high-profile manner, accompanied by open reasons, would also help attempts at "plausible deniability" for serious harm caused to the UK or its allies. The measure could be used against "state-aligned" groups such as the Wagner mercenary group used by the Russians, where it could not be said that the entity was "controlled by" a foreign power. Mr Hall said there were "solid reasons" for creating a new power, equivalent to proscription under the Terrorism Act 2000. He suggested a new order called a Statutory Alert and Liability Threat Notice (SALT Notice) that could be invoked by the home secretary against a foreign intelligence agency. Mr Hall recommended a new offence of "inviting support" for a foreign intelligence service subject to a SALT notice because there might be "ideologically motivated" individuals tempted to carry out acts of espionage or sabotage. Responding to the recommendations, Ms Cooper told the House of Commons: "We're committed to taking forward Mr Hall's recommendations, and we will draw up new powers, modelled on counter-terrorism powers in a series of areas, to tackle those state threats. "We will not hesitate to use it against organisations that pose a threat to UK residents because we will not stand for foreign state organisations seeking to escalate threats on UK soil," she said. She told the House of Commons that "malign activities" by or on behalf of foreign states have grown, and the threats we face have become "more complex and intertwined." MI5 state threats investigations have increased by nearly 50 per cent in a year and police investigations have increased five-fold since 2018, she said.
