(AFP) The Malaysian Mujahideen Group (KMM) has formed a pact with other groups in Indonesia and the Philippines to establish Islamic states in the three countries, Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad said.

"Their objective is so ambitious - to set up Islamic governments in Malaysia, Indonesia and the Philippines through force - but it will not be that easy," the Sunday Star newspaper quoted Mahathir as saying.

But Mahathir said the objective of the KMM was unrealistic, saying they believed the existing governments of the three countries were un-Islamic and headed by infidels.

'Hating a government'

The premier said the emergence of the KMM and other extremist sects was the result of students being influenced by teachers who wanted to further their own political agenda.

"According to a survey carried out by the government, at least 300 Malay university students admitted they did not feel they were Malays, and wanted to be acknowledged only as Muslims," he said.

"But the irony is that their brand of Islam is only limited to hating a government which they perceived as un-Islamic. Nothing more."

Mahathir's remarks reflect repeated allegations that the KMM is linked to a spate of crimes.

Ten alleged members of the group, including seven PAS members, have been detained under the Internal Security Act, which allows detention without trial.