A motion to discuss the extension of detention of six persons for another two years under the Internal Security Act (ISA) was rejected by Dewan Rakyat Speaker Ramli Ngah Talib.

Salahuddin Ayub (PAS-Kubang Kerian) had moved the motion today to adjourn the meeting under standing order 18(1) and (2).

In rejecting this, Ramli said the issue did not fulfill the requirements of standing order 18(1), which covers specific issues of public interest and urgency.

While he acknowledged that a specific issue of public interest was involved, he decided this was not urgent enough for debate.

"This matter does not need to be discussed immediately... has to go through certain process and with this I reject this motion under standing order 18(2)," he said.

Nik Aziz's son

On Sept 23, the six, who have already been under detention for four years, were given another two-year extension . They were first detained in 2001 for allegedly being involved with a militant group.

They are Nik Mohd Adli, son of Kelantan Menteri Besar Nik Aziz Nik Mat, Ahmad Pozi Darman, Alias Ngah, Solehan Abdul Ghafar, Mohamad Lothfi Ariffin and Zainon Ismail.

In tabling his motion, Salahuddin said: "Their detention under the ISA is inhumane and should be criticised because it contradicts the principles of justice, fundamental human rights and humanity itself."

He also said Parliament is the best place to ensure that justice is upheld and to hear the grouses and sufferings of their families.

The PAS leader urged the government to charge the six in court if there is sufficient evidence against them.

The ISA allows for indefinite detention without trial.