Religious, political and health radicalization in the context of national security in Malaysia and public order

• Main Author: El-Muhammady, Ahmad
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Institute of Public Security of Malaysia (IPSOM) Ministry of Home Affairs 2021
• Subjects: H71 General works; JA Political science (General)
• Online Access: http://irep.iium.edu.my/96901/7/96901_Religious%2C%20political%20and%20health%20radicalization%20in%20the%20context%20of%20national%20security.pdf; http://irep.iium.edu.my/96901/; https://www.moha.gov.my/index.php/ms/2015-06-17-02-53-03
• Institution: Universiti Islam Antarabangsa Malaysia

Radicalisation is an evolving phenomenon worldwide. It is also multidimensional. The article seeks to explore three forms of radicalization in Malaysia, namely religious, political and health. It argues that while the first two form of radicalization that is religious and political radicalization remains, while a new form of radicalization based on health issue comes to the fore in the wake of COVID-19 pandemic, promoting the narrative of anti-vaccination and it weaves together with conspiracy theory narratives, End of Times, calling for preparation for the emergence of messiah. This article argues that although health radicalization is initially non- security matters, it has the potential to undermine the national security and public order, for it generates distrust and undermines the authorities’ effort to combat the pandemic in Malaysia. As precaution, preventive and intervention initiatives are needed to curb the spread of radicalization at its potential level before it turns to an actual threat to the nation.