Changing Malaysia’s Deradicalisation Programme through Best Practices Learned from Denmark and Morocco
Marina Abdul Majid, Radzween Abdul Razak

Abstract
Returning Daesh foreign terrorist fighters (FTFS) from Syria and Iraq threaten Malaysia’s security. Weaknesses in policy and the deradicalisation programme have impeded the Malaysian government’s efforts to inhibit the FTF’s ideologies and prevent violence. This study aimed to analyse the current implementation of Malaysia’s deradicalisation policies and programmes, which can be improved by emulating some of Denmark and Morocco’s best practices, for the betterment of Malaysian society. This qualitative study relied on interviews of Malaysian ministries, agencies and experts handling deradicalisation matters. Secondary resources such as journals, books, newspapers and Internet resources were also consulted. The results show that Malaysia needs qualified psychologists specifically trained to change the terrorist mindset as well as establish a post-deradicalisation programme involving families and communities,incorporating non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and private firms to reduce the government’s financial burden.

Full Text: PDF