I would like to urge PAS, the police and the Registrar of Societies (ROS) to conduct a thorough investigation and membership background check to prevent any potential act of treason, or any incidents similar to the report of a former PAS member taking part in the war in Syria, from happening again as it will destroy the country’s international reputation.

The participation of an ex-PAS member in the foreign terrorist group has seriously impacted the status and reputation of Malaysia as a moderate country. PAS Dewan Ulama member Ustaz Lotfi Ariffin’s promotion of militant Jihad has also caused unsettledness in the country. Hence PAS, the police and the ROS have the responsibility to investigate and prevent similar incidents from occurring.

The police and ROS must screen every PAS member to see if Lotfi’s influence has already penetrated PAS and if the Jihad armed struggle promoted by Lotfi has any impact on the political party even though he has already been sacked from the party, as there might be remnants of his followers incubating within PAS.

Lotfi’s case could be just the tip of the iceberg, and the government must take precautionary measures against extremism in Malaysia.

The above incident involves national security, which must be addressed, investigated and acted against. Anyone who commits to terrorist organisations and activities must be viewed as committing an act of treason, and they must be severely punished by revoking their citizenship.

CHAI KIM SEN is MCA publicity bureau chairperson and MCA deputy national organising chairperson.