POLICE will continue to closely monitor the movements of deviant groups in this country to ensure they do not cross the line and threaten public order and national security.
Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Tan Sri Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay said though the issue of deviant teachings falls under the jurisdiction of religious departments and agencies, the police still play a monitoring role as an early preventive measure.
According to him, history has proven that deviant beliefs have the potential to develop into extremist and militant movements and ultimately engage in terrorist activities if not controlled from the beginning.
"Usually it starts with deviant teachings and can develop into terrorism and militancy including planning attacks and murders. That is why we need to monitor from the beginning.
"If they cross the security line and start planning attacks or threats to life, the police will take strict action. We cannot wait until any incident happens before we act," he said.
He said this when met by reporters after attending the PDRM Penang International 2nd Bridge Solidarity Fun Ride 2026 programme.
The ceremony was officiated by the Yang di-Pertua Negeri Pulau Pinang, Tun Ramli Ngah Talib.
Also present were Penang Chief Minister, Chow Kon Yeow and Penang Police Chief, Datuk Azizee Ismail.
Meanwhile, Ayob Khan explained that most of the deviant groups being monitored were within the country, although some had ideologies influenced by foreign beliefs.
Previously, the police identified 14 deviant teachings that were still active in the country and all of them were under close monitoring by the authorities.
Ayob previously said that 154 teachings had been declared deviant since 1950 until now.
He said that of the total, 114 deviant teachings had been identified and given attention by the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM) Special Branch.
"Deviant teachings are among the threats to national security, in addition to the issue of corruption involving civil servants.
"A total of 14 deviant teachings were detected as still active, while eight are under the supervision of the authorities.
"Among them are Perjalanan Mimpi Yang Terakhir, Dewan Perkasa Ekonomi Islam, Millah Abraham, Nur Mutiara Mutmainnah, The Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light," he said. – January 4, 2026
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