A newly formed coalition comprising 22 Malay-Muslim NGOs has called on the government to revive the abolished Internal Security Act (ISA) to deal with "extremist" groups allegedly out to challenge the status of Islam as religion of the federation.

The group that call themselves Barisan Bertindak Melayu Islam (Bertindak) singled out Persatuan Hindraf Malaysia (Hindraf) and its chairperson P Waythamoorthy as the single most urgent threat which must be dealt with.

"Today's meeting of Malay-Muslim NGOs would like to name P Waythamoorthy and Hindraf as being among individuals and organisations that have been most dominant, insolent, to stoke resistance which could lead to disastrous racial and religious ties," said Bertindak spokesperson Mohd Khairul Azam Abdul Aziz during a press conference today.

Among others, Khairul Azam referred to Hindraf's reported demand for the government to review the permanent resident status awarded to Indian preacher Dr Zakir Naik.

The demand to revive the ISA was among the three outcomes reached during their meeting held at the Kelab Sultan Sulaiman in Kuala Lumpur.

Threat to national security

Aside from reviving ISA, the group also urged all Malay-Muslims to rise against the insolence of Waythamoorthy and Hindraf, whom they described as being a threat to national security.

Perkasa chief Ibrahim Ali, who was present, also warned groups against issuing statements that implied the status of all religions are equal in Malaysia.

"Islam is the religion of the federation but other religions are free to practice their faith. Free to practice but still not at par with Islam.

"If you disturb us, we will disturb you... Let them play with fire, before fire meets with fire," he warned.

Ibrahim also pointed out that Hindraf's attacks against Zakir, who is wanted by Indian authorities, made it appear as if they are spokesperson for the Indian government.

Mumbai's Prevention of Money Laundering Act Court had issued a non-bailable warrant of arrest against Zakir.

India's National Investigation Agency (NIA) is also seeking an Interpol red notice against him.