Wisma Putra denounces acts of terror by Malaysians in Syria and Iraq

(The Star) – The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has denounced acts of terrorism or extremism committed by any parties, including those by Malaysians in Syria, the Ministry said on Tuesday.

“Malaysia abhors and does not condone any acts of terrorism or extremism by any parties, including its own nationals.

“In this regard, the Ministry is working closely with the relevant Malaysian authorities on this matter and has also requested the Syrian authorities to verify the allegations,” said the Ministry said in a press statement on Tuesday.

It said that it had learned from a press conference given by the Permanent Representative of Syria to the United Nations in New York.

“On 18 June 2014 it was alleged that 15 Malaysian nationals involved in terrorism and jihadist activities with the militant Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) had been killed in Syria.

“It was also alleged that apart from Malaysians, nationals from other countries including several ASEAN countries, are also involved in such activities in Syria,” said the Ministry.

A Pahang-born man has gained notoriety as the first Malaysian suicide bomber in Iraq.

Ahmad Tarmimi Maliki drove a military SUV filled with tonnes of explosives into the SWAT headquarters in al-Anbar last month, blowing himself up and killing 25 elite soldiers.

The bombing preceded an attack on the headquarters by ISIL commandos.