KUALA LUMPUR: Two new acts being drafted by the Attorney-General to replace the Internal Security Act (ISA) will only be announced after all aspects of public and national security have been studied, said Home Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Tun Hussein.
He said ministry secretary-general Tan Sri Mahmood Adam and Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Ismail Omar had met with the Attorney-General to discuss the aspects.
“When the Acts will be tabled depend on the Attorney-General who will make an announcement,” he told reporters at the ministry’s Aidilfitri celebration at Putra World Trade Centre (PWTC) yesterday.
He said the two new Acts will strike a balance between national interest and security and ensure the harmony that existed since independence is not affected and study the rights of individuals charged under the acts.
“All these aspects are of our concern. They should be studied not only by this ministry but also the Prime Minister’s Department and Ministry of Information Communication and Culture.
“All parties will be involved as we want to ensure that each step is made known to the people. We want to prove that there is no hidden agenda other than to take the nation forward.”
In his Malaysia Day message on Sept 15, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak announced that the ISA will be repealed and two new acts will be enacted to preserve peace in the country.
On the plan by Bersih dan Adil (Bersih) 2.0 to start a campaign on Sept 30 so that their eight demands be implemented before general election, he said it was unnecessary as the government had provided them proper channels via the Parliamentary Select Committee which comprises their representatives.
“We have been transparent and open in our approach. I don’t know what else they want to fight for. The public can see whether they are sincere in fighting for the eight demands or using them as an excuse to create chaos.”
Asked about a sex video clip on the Internet allegedly involving a customs officer, Hishammuddin said that he has not received any information about it. — Bernama