Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has directed the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) to intensify its surveillance and monitoring of online information to address any terrorist threats.
Ahmad Zahid, who also serves as the National Security Council’s deputy chairman, made this request following a disclosure by the Southeast Asian Regional Centre for Counter-Terrorism (SEARCCT) that terrorist groups are using online video games to recruit young people, according to Bernama.
Don’t take (the matter) lightly, even though we know it (terrorist activity) is under control in Malaysia.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi
He expressed confidence in PDRM’s Special Branch Counter Terrorism Unit to enhance monitoring of terrorist activities and take appropriate action.
Ahmad Zahid said monitoring is not easy, but PDRM has the capability to do so, and ASEANAPOL (ASEAN Police) will support these efforts by increasing their surveillance and monitoring programs.
How terrorists are using video games to spread extremism?
According to Director of National Intelligence (DNI) of the United States, these are some of the methods used by terrorists via video games:
- Modifying (or “modding”) existing video games to twist the narrative into a violent extremist message or fantasy.
- Using in-game chat functions to communicate with ideologically like-minded individuals and potential recruits.
- Using gaming references in messaging to normalise terrorist violence, terrorist symbols, or other violent extremist narratives, particularly among young audiences.
