Malaysia does not support IS

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia is clear in its stand against the formation of Islamic State (IS), which "does not reflect Islam" and reiterated that it will not support such extremist groups.
Stressing its support to the United Nations Resolution 2170, which strongly opposes any kind of support and assistance to a militant group like IS, the Foreign Affairs Ministry said Malaysia strongly rejects and condemns any action by IS.
"Malaysia has never supported any actions by IS. The government is confident that issues of violence need to be addressed comprehensively and not merely be solved by using military strength," Deputy Foreign Minister Datuk Hamzah Zainuddin told the Dewan Rakyat today.
"The use of military strength should as much as possible not cause the deaths of civilians," he added.
He was responding to Datuk Seri Abdul Hadi Awang (PAS-Marang), who asked the government's stand on the establishment of a new administration under IS.
"IS's actions have been violent and attacks various quarters in the establishment of its administration. Their actions do not reflect Islamic teachings at all and Malaysia does not support nor recognise the group," Hamzah said.
He said the government's approach in fighting extremism today is through moderation and measures that reflect moderation.
"Our position is very clear, we have a mechanism through the UN's framework and we want moderation in whatever measures taken," he added.