Malaysia resurrects indefinite detention, passes anti-terror act

Prime Minister Najib Razak had promised a new era of greater civil liberties. Photo: Bloomberg

Bangkok: Malaysia's government has revived a law that allows indefinite detention without charge that critics say could usher in a new wave of repression in the south-east Asian nation.

Parliament's passing of a highly contentious Prevention of Terrorism Act comes amid a crackdown on freedom of speech and civil rights where dozens of people have been arrested under a draconian Sedition Act and face up to five years jail.

The government argues the power to detain terrorism suspects without trial, court challenges or legal representation is necessary to combat the rising threat of extremists drawn to groups such as the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria.

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Police claim that 17 militants arrested this week across Malaysia were plotting to attack army camps and police stations. None of them have been named.

Authorities have repeatedly warned that dozens of people from Muslim-majority Malaysia have volunteered for IS jihad.

"This is a real threat and prevention measures are needed," said Home Minister Zahid Hamidi.

But opposition MPs, human rights and civil society groups have attacked the new anti-terror law, which they say is a revival of a colonial-era Internal Security Act that was used to silence the government's opponents before it was repealed in 2012, as Malaysia Prime Minister NajibRazakpledged a new era of greater civil liberties.

Analysts say the Prime Minister's hard line is in response to criticisms of him by conservative figures in his ruling United Malays National Organisation (UMNO), including former prime minister Mahathir Mohamad, who has called on him to resign.

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Malaysia resurrects indefinite detention, passes anti-terror act