THE government is considering amendments to the Security Offences (Special Measures) Act (SOSMA) 2012 to better balance the needs of national security with the protection of individual rights.
The changes aim to improve the effectiveness of the Act in addressing serious and organized crimes that threaten public safety while ensuring justice is not compromised.
Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail outlined the key directions for the proposed amendments, which include reviewing the classification of offences under SOSMA, particularly regarding non-bailable offences.
He said that some of the 73 offences currently covered by the Act may be reassessed to determine whether they should remain strictly non-bailable or allow for court discretion.
Additionally, the government is considering the establishment of a Special SOSMA Court, similar to other specialised courts in Malaysia, to handle such cases without delays.
The Home Minister also suggested amending Section 30 of SOSMA to allow detainees awaiting trial to be eligible for bail under certain circumstances.
Saifuddin stressed that while these changes are under review, the government remains committed to safeguarding national security, particularly in addressing terrorism and organized crime, without infringing upon the fundamental rights of individuals.
The amendments will be fast-tracked through the formation of a Special Committee, with findings expected to be presented in Parliament by July 2025, he told the Dewan Rakyat today. – February 19, 2025
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