Bringing to justice Malaysian terrorists
New Straits Times, Kuala Lumpur
The latest terrorist attack in Indonesia is yet another reminder of how real is the threat of terrorism in the region.
Despite the gains made by the Indonesian authorities against militant groups since the Bali blasts of October 2002, the suicide bombings have continued, and there are worrying signs that more can be expected. There is no question that those responsible for the blast outside the Australian Embassy in Jakarta should be brought to justice.
Although there may be Malaysians involved, Malaysia has no sympathy whatsoever with the perpetrators of this heinous crime. It goes without saying that Malaysia will do whatever it can to help Indonesia track down those responsible. The Deputy Prime Minister has promised full cooperation. Given Malaysia's unflinching and unapologetic record in internal security, we would be the last nation to allow our country to become a breeding ground for religious militants or a haven for terrorists.
Nevertheless, since Indonesia is on the front line, it is hoped there will be further concerted action from Jakarta. Since the suspected Malaysian masterminds behind the bombing are believed to be still in the country, it is essential that the Indonesian authorities leave no stone unturned in the manhunt to flush them out from their hiding places.
Since no country is safe and the terrorists respect no national boundaries, there is an obvious need to pool resources. The regional networks which connect diverse militant cells to one another and to international links make inter-governmental co- operation an imperative.
Thursday's bombing should serve as a spur to greater regional co-ordination and strengthen the resolve to clamp down on terrorism. Countries in the region have no choice but to work more closely than ever before. Border controls have to be tightened, and efforts in intelligence gathering and sharing have to be stepped up and made more effective.
Malaysia's long and hard struggle against the communist insurgency shows that effective counter-terrorism takes time, effort, and a great deal of political will. Through draconian anti-terror laws, constant surveillance and quick action, Malaysia has been successful in nipping in the bud any potential threat from religious extremists.
Even when the Jamaah Islamiyah and Kumpulan Militan Malaysia were weakened as a result of the arrests of more than 100 of their members, the authorities were not complacent and did not let their guard down.
But as Malaysia has learned from bitter experience, while force is not only necessary but has to be applied vigorously, effective counter-terrorism cannot rely exclusively on coercive measures. Unless the imagined and real grievances of those who are prepared to blow themselves up are systematically addressed, it would be difficult to stem the tide of terrorist attacks.