Bangladesh Reaffirms Zero Tolerance For Terrorism, To Cooperate With Malaysia

DHAKA, July 17 (Bernama-BSS) -- Bangladeshi Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain on Wednesday reiterated Bangladesh’s unwavering stance against terrorism and violent extremism, saying Dhaka is prepared to cooperate closely with the Malaysian authorities following the recent arrests of Bangladeshi nationals there.

According to the Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS), Adviser Hossain noted that Bangladesh has already extended its willingness to support the ongoing investigation in Malaysia, where a number of Bangladeshi citizens have been arrested in connection with alleged involvement in radical groups.

“We want to cooperate fully. I understand they will cooperate with us. I have assured them of cooperation from our side,” said the adviser to reporters at the Foreign Service Academy.

He mentioned that two more individuals were arrested recently on similar charges and there may be more developments. 

“We have been given an indication that more arrests will be made,” he said.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) earlier confirmed that the Bangladesh High Commission in Kuala Lumpur has formally requested details about the arrested individuals, including their identities and the nature of the allegations.

Bangladesh has consistently maintained a strong policy of zero tolerance towards terrorism, militancy and violent extremism, and reiterated its commitment to upholding this principle in bilateral cooperation with friendly nations.

“If anyone is involved, they must face the legal consequences under Malaysian law,” Adviser Hossain said, adding that punishment could be from two  to seven years of imprisonment if proven guilty. “If they are acquitted, it will be fine,” he added.

The matter was also discussed during Adviser Hossain’s recent visit to Kuala Lumpur, where he met with Malaysian Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan on the sidelines of the 32nd ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) Ministerial Meeting. 

During the meeting, both sides agreed on close cooperation, particularly on information sharing and ensuring due legal process for those detained.

Malaysian authorities have so far filed formal charges against five Bangladeshi nationals, and the investigations are ongoing.

The Adviser expressed confidence that Malaysia will facilitate access to information and uphold cooperation with Bangladesh throughout the process.

Bangladesh continues to stand firm against all forms of terrorism and remains committed to working with international partners to ensure regional and global peace and security, he said.

-- BERNAMA-BSS