The Home Ministry today rebutted criticisms on the Prevention of Terrorism Bill 2015 (Pota) which some have likened to the repealed Internal Security Act (ISA).

 

Deputy Home Minister Wan Junaidi Tuanku Wan Jaafar said the new bill was different as executive powers now rest with a five-member advisory board instead of being in the hands of the home minister as in the ISA.

The board is appointed by the Agong.

"In the ISA, the police decided who to detain. But under Pota, only the board is allowed to make the decision," he explained in the Dewan Rakyat today while tabling the second reading of the bill. 

Wan Junaidi also told MPs to not worry of being subjected under the new terrorism laws. 

"I guarantee that this bill has taken consideration on civil liberties which have been given full priority.”

 

 He told MPs not to worry as the board will be led by a chairperson with at least 15 years of experience in the legal field.

 

“He will be assisted by deputy chairperson, while other members will have experience in law and security," he added.