Bangladesh (Commonwealth Union)_ Bangladesh has reiterated its firm commitment to fighting terrorism and violent extremism, expressing readiness to work closely with Malaysian authorities following the arrest of several Bangladeshi nationals accused of being involved in radical activities there. Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain made the remarks today while speaking to the media at the Foreign Service Academy. He emphasized that Bangladesh maintains a zero-tolerance policy on terrorism and stands ready to assist Malaysia in its ongoing investigations. “We’re fully prepared to cooperate,” said Adviser Hossain. “I’ve already assured the Malaysian side that we’re ready to support them in every way possible.”
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The adviser confirmed that more arrests could follow, as Malaysian officials have indicated ongoing investigations may uncover further suspects. “We’ve been informed there might be additional detentions soon,” he noted. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) confirmed that Bangladesh’s High Commission in Kuala Lumpur has formally requested detailed information about the arrested individuals, including their identities and the specific allegations against them. The High Commission has also pledged to provide necessary assistance to the Bangladeshi expatriates affected.
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Malaysia has so far pressed charges against five Bangladeshi nationals following a wide-ranging counter-terrorism operation launched in April. The crackdown, which unfolded in three phases across the states of Selangor and Johor, targeted individuals suspected of promoting extremist ideology and plotting to destabilize governments. Malaysian authorities said the security operation began on April 24 and resulted in the arrest of 36 Bangladeshi nationals. The Malaysian Ministry of Home Affairs has charged five individuals under terrorism-related sections of the Malaysian Penal Code. Their trials are currently ongoing in courts in Shah Alam and Johor Bahru.
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Out of the 36 detained, 15 have been ordered deported, while 16 others are still under investigation. Malaysian officials claim the suspects were involved in raising funds for extremist causes and sought to use Malaysia as a base to undermine the Bangladeshi government, operating under the guise of regular migrant workers. Bangladesh’s Foreign Adviser stressed that anyone found guilty must face the legal consequences under Malaysian law. “If someone is involved, they must be punished according to Malaysian law, which could mean two to seven years in prison,” he said. “If they’re proven innocent, that will be the end of it.”
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Adviser Hossain had also discussed the issue during his recent visit to Kuala Lumpur, where he met with Malaysian Foreign Minister Dato’ Seri Mohamad Hasan on the sidelines of the 32nd ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) Ministerial Meeting. Both countries agreed to maintain close cooperation, particularly in terms of information sharing and legal transparency. Malaysian Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail has been clear that Malaysia will not tolerate any attempt by foreign nationals to use its territory for extremist purposes. “Malaysia will not become a safe haven or launchpad for foreign militant activity,” he stated firmly during a recent press briefing. His comments come amid rising concerns that extremist elements may try to exploit Malaysia’s large migrant and refugee population to set up operational networks.
The recent arrests have drawn renewed attention to the challenges of monitoring and managing migrant communities in Southeast Asia. Malaysian officials said the group’s alleged plan was not just a threat to Malaysia but also aimed at destabilizing Bangladesh from afar. Bangladesh’s Foreign Ministry has expressed confidence that Malaysia will ensure due process for those arrested and continue sharing relevant information as the case unfolds. “We’re committed to standing against terrorism in all forms,” Adviser Hossain said. “We will continue working with our partners around the world to maintain peace and security—both regionally and globally.”
