KUALA LUMPUR — Malaysia’s strategic location, economic appeal and relatively lenient immigration policies have made it an attractive destination for Bangladeshi extremists, according to counter-terrorism experts. This follows the recent dismantling of an Islamic State-inspired militant cell by police.
Security practitioner and researcher Munira Mustaffa noted that Malaysia is close enough to Bangladesh for operational convenience, yet far enough to potentially avoid scrutiny from Bangladeshi authorities.
Munira, who is also founder and executive director of security consultancy Chasseur Group, said Malaysia’s permissive political, cultural, and economic environment further draws extremist elements.
“This doesn’t necessarily reflect a weakness on Malaysia’s part, but rather highlights the importance of understanding the operational needs of terrorist groups in order to counter them effectively,” she told Scoop.
Meanwhile, Professor Mohd Mizan Mohammad Aslam, a strategic and counter-terrorism analyst at the National Defence University of Malaysia (UPNM), attributed the infiltration to Malaysia’s “soft” immigration policies.
These, he said, provide extremists the opportunity to move freely, establish militant cells, and pose threats to national security.
He also pointed out that Malaysia’s economic prosperity creates opportunities for foreign nationals to improve their livelihoods, part of which is often funnelled back to extremist causes.
“They are required to contribute a portion of their salary to the movement, which is then used to fund extremist activities—especially in their home countries,” he told Scoop.
On Friday, Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail revealed that police had arrested 36 Bangladeshi nationals this week for suspected involvement in a radical militant group. The network is also believed to have set up a recruitment cell in Malaysia.
Five of the suspects have been charged in the Shah Alam and Johor Bahru Sessions Courts under Chapter VI A of the Penal Code for terrorism-related offences. Another 15 individuals have been deported, while 16 remain under investigation.
According to Saifuddin, intelligence work by the Special Branch uncovered that the group had imported Islamic State (IS) ideologies into Malaysia. The group had also established a recruitment mechanism within its community to indoctrinate followers, raise funds, and support efforts to topple the legitimate government in Bangladesh.
Why is Bangladesh a target for terror groups?
Currently, Bangladesh is governed by an interim administration led by Chief Advisor Dr Muhammad Yunus, formed after the ousting of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina during last year’s July Revolution.
Munira said the country’s recent political upheaval has created vulnerabilities often exploited by extremist groups.
“Post-revolution periods are typically marked by internal power struggles, governance disputes, and societal rifts. These conditions provide fertile ground for extremist groups to exploit. It’s a common trend following sudden regime changes,” she explained.
Should Malaysia screen foreign workers for terror links?
With Bangladeshi workers in Malaysia potentially being targeted for radicalisation, questions have emerged over whether Malaysia should enhance its screening processes for foreign labourers.
Munira noted that Malaysia already conducts basic screenings for terrorism links, in line with global standards. However, she cautioned that profiling alone is an imprecise and potentially discriminatory tool.
“Most countries only flag individuals who pose direct, tangible threats rather than hypothetical risks,” she said.
“There’s no perfect solution. The focus should be on actual criminal records, which are already a part of the documentation process for foreign workers. The key is balancing security concerns with the risk of stigmatisation.”
Professor Mizan acknowledged the challenges of vetting undocumented individuals, especially among Bangladeshi and Rohingya communities, due to a lack of formal records. He warned that radicalised individuals who bypass these checks can form terror cells within Malaysia.
To enhance national security, he suggested implementing a mandatory security clearance process, such as the certificate of good conduct issued by Wisma Putra after police vetting.
“This certificate should be a compulsory prerequisite before any visa or work permit is issued,” he said.
Mizan also proposed that Malaysia diversify its labour sources, suggesting countries like Timor-Leste as alternatives to Bangladesh.
The role of faith communities in prevention
As foreign workers remain vulnerable to indoctrination, Munira called on local Muslim communities to foster greater inclusivity, helping migrant workers feel a sense of belonging.
“Local Muslim communities play a vital role in promoting inclusion over isolation. The concept of ummah is about openness and unity,” she said.
She added that marginalisation increases the risk of individuals turning to extremist ideologies, making social inclusion a frontline defence in counter-radicalisation efforts. — June 28, 2025
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