ISIS remains primary threat in South-east Asia: Report

S’pore continues to be featured in militant group’s propaganda

- Wong Shiying

South-east Asia continues to face an active terror threat, primarily from the ISIS militant group, said the Internal Security Department (ISD).

In its annual report on terrorism released on July 25, ISD said the region continues to see ISIS-linked or ISIS-inspired attacks and foiled plots.

On May 17, a radicalised man who was likely motivated by ISIS' violent ideology attacked a police station in Ulu Tiram, Johor, with a machete, killing two police officers and injuring a third.

ISD said the incident underscores the continued resonance of radical ideologies, such as those extolled by ISIS, among the vulnerable and misguided.

"That this attack was carried out with an easily available bladed weapon also highlights how loneactor attacks involving simple means remain a serious threat," ISD added.

The attacker, a 21-year-old Malaysian, was shot dead by a police officer at the scene. His five family members were charged in court with terrorism-related offences.

ISD said Singapore remains a prized target and continues to be featured in ISIS propaganda.