Train the Trainers Course on Community Engagement for Prevention of Violent Extremism

Kuala Lumpur, 8-19 May 2023 – Initiative to Promote Tolerance and Prevent Violence (INITIATE.MY), in collaboration with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), Counterterrorism Unit (E8) Special Branch and Safe in Custody, successfully co-organised two series of the “Train-the-Trainers Course on Community Engagement for Prevention of Violent Extremism.” Over 60 participants from the Counterterrorism Unit (E8) Special Branch and the Crime Prevention and Community Safety (JPJKK) of the Royal Malaysia Police were actively engaged in this intensive two-week training program.

The training program was designed to augment the participants’ proficiency as first responders in thwarting cases of violent extremism in Malaysia. The comprehensive course delved into a myriad of intricate concepts and theories, encompassing a deep comprehension of the multifaceted nature of both offline and online forms of violent extremism. It underscored the indispensable role of community policing in early detection of radicalisation indicators, emphasising the cultivation of trust within diverse communities. Furthermore, the course honed the participants’ interview skills, not solely to extract information but also to foster resilient societies that possess a heightened awareness and a cooperative spirit in the prevention of extremist ideologies within their respective domains. Additionally, the training underscored the importance of effective reporting techniques, highlighting the meticulous collection of crucial information to construct evidence-based cases that facilitate targeted intervention and countermeasures.

Distinguished experts were carefully selected to serve as resource persons for this training program. Among them were Dr. Haezreena Begum, a scholar specialising in law and security crime prevention from Universiti Malaya (UM), and Dr. Mukhriz Mat Rus, an academic with expertise in the same field from Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM). Complementing their knowledge was Dr. Chung Kai Li, an expert in forensic psychology from the University of Reading Malaysia. Notably, the training also benefited from the extensive experience of DCP Normah Ishak, the Chief of Counterterrorism Police (E8), who has served in the police force for over three decades. Reflecting E8’s current focus on preventive measures against violent extremism in light of the decline in terror-related cases, the importance of community policing was underscored as a crucial aspect to be fostered.

This training program represents a landmark collaboration between civil society and law enforcement in the security sector of Malaysia. It symbolises a commendable demonstration of willingness and concerted efforts from both sides to pool resources and effectively address security challenges. By enhancing the capacity of the police force and providing a platform for mutual learning between civil society and law enforcement, this collaboration exemplifies a comprehensive and inclusive approach in line with the United Nations Security Council’s mandate. It underscores the understanding that preventing violent extremism necessitates the active involvement and collective engagement of all stakeholders across society.

The training program was part of UNODC’s Strengthening Resilience to Violent Extremism (STRIVE ASIA) initiative, generously funded by the European Union. The presence and opening speeches of Mr. Timo Goosman, Minister Counsellor and Head of Political Affairs, Press and Information, and Mr. Ekraj Sabur, UNODC’s Terrorism Prevention Officer, further underscored the support of the program’s objectives. Mr. Hisham Muhaimi, INITIATE.MY’s Project Coordinator, Aizat Shamsuddin, INITIATE.MY’s Founder and Azura Nasron, Safe in Custody’s Program Manager, who were the main coordinators of this training, have already begun discussions regarding the possibility of future advanced courses in the next quarter of the year.