Deputy Home Minister Abu Seman Yusop said the arrest of 13 individuals in Tawau, Sabah, under the Internal Security Act (ISA) earlier this week is not in conflict with the act in any way.

He said the current security situation must be handled in a practical manner although it had been announced that the ISA would be abolished.

"I urge certain quarters to refrain from being emotional in their statements regarding issues on national security under the ISA," he told reporters after launching the ministry's Meet The Customers Day in Kuala Sungai Baru, Alor Gajah today.

He said this when asked to comment on reports in a news portal which quoted Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (Suhakam) chairman Hasmy Agam as urging the Home Ministry to release the detainees who were arrested last Monday.

According to Abu Seman, although the plan to abolish the ISA was announced, the government would not ignore serious security issues.

"This involves terrorism, and there are those who received military training and weapons. We can't sit back and do nothing," he said, adding there was currently a need to take action against the 13 individuals, including six foreigners, under the act.

- Bernama