The government is unlikely to revive the Internal Security Act (ISA) but will amend the existing acts or create a new act to address action by extremists.

Home Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the abolished ISA was not meant to detain those with differing political views but to maintain national security.

However, the government will take into account and study the views of some people who want to see the return of the ISA.

"What were said by several leaders including the inspector-general of police (IGP) can be considered but it’s not easy to revive the ISA," he told reporters after opening the 42nd National Rela Day celebration in Bagan Datoh today.

Zahid said Prime Minister Najib Razak had considered all views, including by former prime minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad on the matter.

Mahathir proposed the return of the ISA to address action by minority  extremists out to destabilise the country.

IGP Khalid Abu Bakar yesterday fully supported Mahathir's suggestion that the government bring back the ISA to maintain security and public order.

- Bernama