Individual Passports Will Not Be Seized Without Proof Of Involvement In Terrorism

KUALA LUMPUR, April 28 (Bernama) -- Under the Special Measures Against Terrorism in Foreign Countries Bill 2015, passports or travel documents of any individuals will not be arbitrarily seized without solid evidence of the holders' involvement in terrorism activities. Deputy Foreign Minister Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar said the backgrounds of the suspects would be investigated first before further actions were taken. "Although their names are probably listed (as members in terrorist groups), the government will always take caution. "In fact, the government will investigate and find certain proof before having the Inspector-General of Police asks the Malaysian Immigration Department director-general or the home minister to detain the passport of an individual because we don't want the law to be abused," he said when winding up the debate on the bill at the Dewan Negara sitting Monday. Wan Junaidi said the method detaining the passports and travel documents of individuals suspected of being involved in terrorism activities, was not only adopted by Malaysia, but also by other nations. He said it was not only focused on members of the so-called IS militant group, but also on individuals or groups listed as terrorists. The bill was then passed. -- BERNAMA