MHA Statement on Minister Shanmugam’s Visit to Kuala Lumpur from 25-26 January 2016

1. Mr K. Shanmugam, Minister for Home Affairs and Minister for Law, led a delegation to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia to attend the International Conference on Deradicalisation and Countering Violent Extremism from 25 to 26 Jan 2016. He was accompanied by senior officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs.

2. The Conference provided a platform for the sharing of experiences and best practices among invited countries in addressing radicalisation and countering violent extremism.  It was attended by ASEAN Member States, Japan, the People's Republic of China, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, France, Italy, the United Kingdom and the United States of America.

3. During the Conference, Minister Shanmugam spoke on the importance of countering the radical ideology and propaganda of ISIS. On Singapore's counter-ideology efforts, Minister Shanmugam emphasised the importance of educating the community on the responsible use of social media and the need to reach out to our youth. He highlighted the ongoing work by community organisations, such as the Religious Rehabilitation Group, which has been providing religious counselling and conducting public outreach against the dangers of extremism, and the interagency Aftercare Group which provides a range of family care services to detainees.  Minister Shanmugam also emphasised the importance of community vigilance, preparedness and cohesion.

4. Stressing the importance of international collaboration, Minister Shanmugam said that "Terrorism is a clear and present danger to us, and it is vital for countries to work very closely with each other".

5. During the trip, Minister Shanmugam also met with Malaysian leaders including Malaysian Prime Minister Dato' Sri Mohd Najib bin Tun Haji Abdul Razak, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Home Dato' Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid bin Hamidi, Foreign Minister Dato' Sri Anifah bin Haji Aman, Defence Minister Dato' Seri Hishammuddin bin Tun Hussein and Tourism and Culture Minister Dato' Seri Mohamed Nazri bin Abdul Aziz to discuss issues of bilateral interest.