LUMINATE's Youth Rountable Discussion
2023-10-02 08:00 - 17:00 (Asia/Shanghai)
Kuala Lumpur, 2 October 2023 – The Initiative to Promote Tolerance and Prevent Violence (INITIATE.MY) participated in a Youth Roundtable Discussion organised by the LUMINATE Foundation. The workshop gathered 28 youth leaders from various backgrounds in the civil society sector. The workshop’s primary aim encompassed a collaborative exchange of best practices in fostering youth participation and engagement, aspirations and experiences of young activists and researchers.

The roundtable explored various aspects of working in the social impact industry from the perspective of a youth person. It also served as a space to recenter participants on their involvement in the social impact and why it matters to them. The roundtable discussion also explored other topics such as professional growth, mental health and financial responsibilities.

INITIATE.MY applauds Luminate Foundation for offering a valuable platform to young professionals engaged in the social impact sector. INITIATE.MY firmly believes that such a space is essential for enabling youth to connect with like-minded individuals who share their dedication to driving positive social change including in social cohesion and tolerance.

It allows them to openly discuss the challenges encountered in the civil society profession and collectively brainstorm solutions. The objective is to cultivate an inclusive ecosystem that empowers youth, placing a strong emphasis on incorporating youth perspectives and leadership.

2023 International Conference and AMAN Assembly
2023-10-14 08:00 - 2023-10-16 17:00
Banda Aceh, 14-16 October 2023 – The Asian Muslim Action Network (AMAN) along with Fakultas Syariah & Hukum of Universitas Islam Negeri Ar-Raniry co-organised an International Conference and AMAN Assembly 2023 with the theme ‘Religious Inclusion and Peacebuilding in the World: The Perspective of Muslims.

The conference involved about 500 participants from Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, The Philippines, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Pakistan and India. The AMAN Assembly provided a space amongst Muslims and other faith leaders and communities to share good practices on religious harmony, interfaith dialogue, women empowerment and democracy. The event comprised study visits to historical sites in Aceh, a two-day international conference, and an internal AMAN meeting.

Representing the Initiative to Promote Tolerance and Prevent Violence (INITIATE.MY), Hisham Muhaimi participated as a panellist in a parallel workshop titled ‘Dialogue on Violent Extremism and the Involvement of Women and Youth,’ alongside panellists from Indonesia and Bangladesh.

Hisham began by contextualising the situation concerning women, youth, and violent extremism in Malaysia. He then shared INITIATE.MY’s best practices in supporting the Youth, Peace, and Security (YPS) Agenda and the Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) Agenda. During his presentation, he highlighted the limited engagement of civil society organisations (CSOs) in Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism (PCVE) in Malaysia and the government’s lack of meaningful involvement with CSOs, which can hinder their ability to make an impact in the community.

Emphasising the importance of training CSO actors in PCVE, Hisham stressed that such exposure is necessary to encourage more CSOs to incorporate the PCVE framework into their programming initiatives.

Additionally, at the conference, Hisham moderated an open mic session featuring ten youth changemakers from Indonesia, Thailand, India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and Pakistan. The session revolved around the topic ‘Reinventing Nonviolent Civil Resistance: Youth Peaceful Movement and Technology.’ Each youth participant shared their experiences about their work in their respective countries and advancing nonviolent civil resistance such as in the contexts of Myanmar and some regions in India, particularly from the perspectives of youth and technology. This session fostered a collaborative environment for various stakeholders to engage in a meaningful dialogue for peaceful coexistence .

Hisham Muhaimi (at the podium) was moderating an open mic session involving 10 youth changemakers from South and Southeast Asia

Panellists on “Dialogue on Violent Extremism and the Involvement of Women and Youth” receiving tokens of appreciation from the host, AMAN Indonesia.

Selection Announcement: 2023 Strategic Communications Festival in Bali, Indonesia
2023-11-03 08:00 - 17:00
Kuala Lumpur, 3 November 2023 – The Initiative to Promote Tolerance and Prevent Violence (INITIATE.MY) would like to congratulate participants from Group 4 and 2 for being selected to represent Malaysia in the upcoming regional Strategic Communications Festival that is set to take place in Bali, Indonesia this December 2023.

Group 4 members are Kennimrod Sariburaja from the Southeast Asia Regional Centre for Counterterrorism (SEARCCT), Yustina Ishak from the National Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM), Perasath Servai a freelance videographer, Irdina Azira from Universiti Malaya (UM), Jonathan Glenn Wong from Victoria University Student Council and Raja Nur Hidayah from Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM).

Group 2 members are Elisa Shafiqah from Malaysian Youth Diplomacy, Afiq Ismaizam from the Southeast Asia Regional Centre for Counterterrorism (SEARCCT), Sharifah Nursyafiqah from The Rakyat Post, Dr. Alfonso from the National Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) and Peter Chew MingCong from the Victoria University Student Council.

The United Nations Office on Drug and Crime (UNODC) will host the festival that features selected participants from national-level trainings that were held in Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines throughout the year of 2023. Participants will showcase their strategic communications projects on preventing violent extremism within their own respective contexts. The objective is to facilitate the regional exchange of best practices in the field of PCVE, with an emphasis on the crucial role of strategic communications in averting the risks of radicalisation in the online and offline spaces.

Kennimrod, Jonathan, Yustina, Pera (from left at the back) Irdina and Nurhidayah (from left at the front) from Group 4 are the first selected group to represent Malaysia in the upcoming Strategic Communications Festival hosted by UNODC this December 2023.

Afiq, Elisa, Sharifah, Dr. Alfonso and Peter (from left to right) from Group 2 are the second selected group to represent Malaysia.

Workshop on Youth, Gender, and Preventing Violent Extremism in Southeast Asia
2023-11-29 08:00 - 2023-11-30 17:00
Bali, Indonesia, 29-30 November 2023 – The Initiative to Promote Tolerance and Prevent Violence (INITIATE.MY) participated in the workshop on Youth, Gender, and Preventing Violent Extremism in Southeast Asia organised by the Pacific Forum in collaboration with the US Indo-Pacific Command Office of Women, Peace, and Security (USINDOPACOM). The focus was on exploring the intersection of youth, gender, and preventing violent extremism (PCVE) in Southeast Asia.

The workshop brought together participants from Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines, representing security agencies, youth and women’s civil society actors. The objective was to build relationships between security personnel and grassroots organisations that are focused on addressing extremism through women, peace, and security (WPS) and youth, peace, and security (YPS) by connecting civil society and security institutions. Bringing together actors working in PCVE sectorat the local, national, and regional levels, and enabling a better understanding of incorporating gender and youth perspectives into PCVE efforts at the institutional level.

INITIATE.MY’s Board of Experts, Dr. Mukhriz Mat Rus led a session discussing his work on PCVE from gender and youth perspectives. He emphasised the vital role of women as the first responders in a domestic household and the urgent need to link Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SBGV) to extremism. He also highlighted INITIATE.MY’s work such as Peace Lab Youth (PLY), Train-the-Trainers for Community Engagement and Strategic Communications training series that serve as testaments to the multi-stakeholders approach being practised in Malaysia. At the end of the session, Dr. Mukhriz explained the limitations faced by the civil society and the need for support from government security agencies such as funding constraints and limited expertise.

The workshop managed to enlighten government security agencies about the importance of including gender and youth perspectives in PCVE efforts. This heightened awareness lays the foundation for crafting more inclusive and effective strategies that resonate with diverse walks of communities. The workshop also successfully facilitated closer ties between security stakeholders and grassroots organisations to ensure a comprehensive and community-driven approach to preventing violent extremism.

INITIATE.MY strongly supports this effort of continuous knowledge-sharing across maritime Southeast Asia to foster a stronger multi-sectoral collaboration between government security agencies and civil society organisations.

The event drew government security agencies, youth and women’s civil society actors from Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines.

Regional Dialogue on Multi-Sectoral Partnership to Prevent Violent Extremism & EWERS Report at UNODC Training
2023-11-29 08:00 - 2023-11-30 17:00
Penang, 29-30 November 2023 – The United Nations Office of Drugs and Crime Regional Office for Southeast Asia and the Pacific (UNODC-ROSEAP) organised the Regional Dialogue on Multi-Sectoral Partnership aimed to to advance the collective regional response to violent extremism and promote the development of more resilient communities in Southeast Asia. The format of the conferences focused on opportunities and threats analyses, best practices identification, research findings sharing, and partnership strategising. INITIATE.MY was invited to speak in several sessions of this dialogue in this workshop.

Hisham Muhaimi, Project Coordinator of INITIATE.MY joined other UNODC consultants from Indonesia and the Philippines in the session “Exploring Government and Civil Society Collaboration in PCVE”. Hisham’s presentation focused on the Malaysian context based on the 7 series of national workshops in Malaysia held between May to September 2023. The workshop series focused on community engagement and strategic communications involving enforcement officials, government agencies, civil society, academia, media practitioners, and students. Read more..

Hisham highlighted the ongoing challenges that impede meaningful collaboration between government entities and civil society organisations (CSOs). He emphasised the government has a pivotal role in allocating more funding and resources specifically dedicated to PCVE initiatives. One approach to overcome this challenge is by prioritising PCVE in the national budget allocation. Then dedicated funding streams or grant applications can be ensured for both government agencies and CSOs to have access to financial support for joint initiatives. He also recommended that capacity building training should be a regular effort to empower both government agencies and CSOs with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively engage in PCVE initiatives. By investing in this effort, Malaysia can move towards a collaborative approach in addressing the complex challenges posed by violent extremism.

In another session, Aizat Shamsuddin, Founder of INITIATE.MY, participated in a panel discussion alongside distinguished speakers from Indonesia and the Philippines, focusing on the Early Warning and Early Response System (EWERS). He emphasised EWERS as a crucial framework and tool for comprehensive assessment of violent extremism risks. This approach enables the early identification of risks, facilitating timely and appropriate responses to prevent escalation.

Drawing from INITIATE.MY’s extensive research and training initiatives with law enforcement, Aizat posited that EWERS can be effectively adapted by various stakeholders according to their specific organisational mandates and requirements. This approach allows for the decentralisation of responsibilities in addressing violent extremism risks by reducing the burden traditionally placed on police alone.

In alignment with the Malaysian government’s development of the National Action Plan on Prevention and Countering of Violent Extremism (NAPPCVE), Aizat proposed three key strategies: Firstly, continued investment in the research and development of collaborative EWERS is vital to address any gaps. Secondly, investing in training programmes to enhance the capabilities of EWERS implementers. Lastly, fostering cross-sectoral trust to ensure the sustainability and effectiveness of these collaborative efforts in countering violent extremism.

Hisham Muhaimi (second from right), Project Coordinator at INITIATE.MY was sharing his insights on the space for collaboration between government and civil societies in the effort to prevent violent

Regional Workshop on Strategic Communication for Effective Prevention of Violent Extremism in Southeast Asia
2023-12-12 08:00 - 2023-12-14 17:00
Bali, Indonesia, 12-14 December 2023 – The Initiative to Promote Tolerance and Prevent Violence (INITIATE.MY) participated in the Regional Workshop on Strategic Communication for Effective Prevention of Violent Extremism in Southeast Asia, organised by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) with the support from European Union (EU). Participants from the regional governments, law enforcement agencies, civil societies, and survivors of terrorism across Southeast Asia engaged in a dynamic exchange of ideas, sharing their experiences and best practices and discussing innovative strategies for impactful communication campaigns and regional cooperation to prevent violent extremism.

The event was led by Dr. Noor Huda Ismail from the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies, Singapore, and Dr. Haezreena Begum Abdul Hamid from the University of Malaya, Malaysia who is also INITIATE.MY’s Board of Experts Member. The first session lays the foundation of the workshop, with participants presenting an analysis of the terrorism threat landscape and the challenges of preventing and countering violent extremism (PCVE) in their respective countries. The Malaysian delegation, represented by Afiq Ismaizam from the Southeast Asia Regional Centre for Counter-Terrorism (SEARCCT), Shaik Irfan from INITIATE.MY and Elisa Shafiqah from Malaysian Youth Diplomacy (MYDiplomacy) took the opportunity to share the Malaysian context regarding the online trends of extremism and hate speech, on-campus radicalisation, and the role of local communities and civil society to address these issues.

Besides that, the workshop served as a continuation of prior strategic communications workshops in Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines in which the participants could showcase their own national projects. Group 4 from Malaysia presented their projects on ‘Instant Prejudice in Malaysian Online Reporting’, an analysis of media reports on racial issues, and the online campaign ‘Take Two’, which aimed to promote awareness on ethical usage of social media. Participants had the chance to do a site visit to Ubud Writers and Readers Festival (UWRF), where they immersed themselves in the local cultures and learned to utilise arts, literature, and multiculturalism to promote social cohesion, interreligious harmony, in their strategic communications projects.

The concluding day featured an in-depth discussion on the Role of Strategic Communication in Early Warning and Early Response (EWER) with Dr. Delsy Ronnie, Head of Mission in the Philippines & Regional Representative for Asia: Myanmar, Thailand & Indonesia, Nonviolent Peaceforce, Philippines. Participants were exposed to the EWER system to employ a whole-of-society approach for preventing extremism at the local level through strategic communications such as community participation in the data collection, information sharing and timely interventions.

As to measuring the outcomes and effectiveness of the workshop, participants are required to present their group’s strategic communications projects, by highlighting the cross-regional approach in PCVE. Shaik Irfan from INITIATE.MY collaborated with representatives from Indonesia and the Philippines national security bodies to develop a strategic communications project called “Vibin”. It is a social media campaign targeted at fostering digital resilience among Southeast Asian youths.

Looking forward, INITIATE.MY hopes to forge a lasting impact and enhance security across Southeast Asia.By strengthening strategic ties between countries, such as Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines, a more concerted effort can be made in addressing the challenges posed by extremism in the regional context of Southeast Asia.

14 participants of the Advanced Course were selected to represent Malaysia in the Regional Workshop on Strategic Communications for Effective Prevention of Violent Extremism in Southeast Asia.

Shaik Irfan, a Programme Associate at INITIATE.MY presenting the terrorism threats and challenges in PCVE in Malaysia to fellow participants from Indonesia and the Philippines.

Study Visit to Kajang Women’s Prison
2023-12-19 08:00 - 17:00
Kajang, Selangor, 19 December 2023 – The Initiative to Promote Tolerance and Prevent Violence (INITIATE.MY) participated in a study visit to Kajang Women’s Prison, organised by Dr. Haezreena Begum, a Board of Expert Member at INITIATE.MY and Deputy Dean at the Faculty of Law, University of Malaya. The visit provided insights into the vocational programmes offered to women inmates, including baking, sewing, handcrafting, and spa services. These initiatives aim to facilitate the inmates’ rehabilitation by developing their skills and enabling their reintegration into society. Products such as cookies and batik items, produced by the inmates, are sold to the public under the My Pride brand. While the immediate financial impact may be modest, these programmes offer inmates the opportunity to earn income and gain valuable skills during their time in prison.

INITIATE.MY views the study visit as a valuable opportunity for meaningful exchanges between academia, civil society practitioners, prison officials, and inmates. It fosters understanding of Malaysia’s prison system, sheds light on the challenges faced by both the prison department and inmates, and explores avenues for improvement, particularly in terms of facility upgrades and effective reintegration programmes upon inmates’ release.

Aizat Shamsuddin and Hisham Muhaimi (third row on the left) from INITIATE.MY participated in the study visit to Kajang Women’s Prison.

Expert Consultation Series on Online Hate and Violent Extremism
2024-01-24 08:00 - 2024-01-30 17:00
Kuala Lumpur, 24-30 January 2024– The Initiative to Promote Tolerance and Prevent Violence (INITIATE.MY) has successfully organised Expert Consultation Series on Online Hate and Violent Extremism, which brought together more than 50 participants, representing civil society organisations, academia, tech and media companies, and government agencies. This project is supported by the British High Commission in Malaysia.

These consultation series provided insightful feedback and suggestions on the dangerous trends of online hate and violent extremism in Malaysia following the 2022 General Election in Malaysia. Participants also identified existing efforts and ways to improve these efforts to combat the dangerous trends.

The consultation featured guest speakers such as Dr. Nawab Osman, Global Head of the Dangerous Organisations and Individuals Programme at Meta, Dr. Sabariah Mohamed Salleh, Coordinator at JomCheck Malaysia, and Kennimrod Sariburaja, Director of Research and Publication at Southeast Asia Regional Centre for Counter-Terrorism (SEARCCT).

INITIATE.MY aims to harness the insights gathered from the consultation series to develop and enhance multi-sectoral policy recommendations. These recommendations will be instrumental in addressing the concerning rise of hate and violent extremism in the digital realm, ultimately fostering safer environments, both online and offline, for Malaysia’s diverse multi-racial and religious society.

Suyin Chia and Daniel Teoh, researchers at INITIATE.MY presenting the dangerous trends of online hate and violent extremism within Malaysia’s digital landscape.

INITIATE.MY with the consultation participants from the Malaysian government agencies.

ASEAN-Australia Counter-Terrorism Workshop
2024-01-30 08:00 - 2024-01-31 17:00
Bali, Indonesia, 30-31 January 2024 – The Initiative to Promote Tolerance and Prevent Violence (INITIATE.MY) participated in the ASEAN-Australia Counter-Terrorism Workshop. This event focused on Good Practice Approaches to Countering Violent Extremism, Hate Speech, and Disinformation Online. It was co-hosted by the ASEAN Senior Officials Meeting on Transnational Crime (SOMTC)-Indonesia and Australia and facilitated by the Asia Foundation.

The workshop addressed the growing concern of online hate speech, disinformation, and violent extremist content in Southeast Asia, which have seen a significant rise over recent years. These dangerous narratives, easily disseminated through accessible social media and technology platforms have posed a risk of radicalisation, particularly to vulnerable communities and groups.

The workshop brought together representatives from diverse sectors, including technology and social media companies, and relevant civil society organisations from ASEAN member states and beyond. Discussions centred on sharing experiences and recommendations to tackle the misuse of the internet for radicalisation and violent extremism, balancing security needs with human rights considerations.

Aizat Shamsuddin, Founder of INITIATE.MY, contributed to the panel on ‘The Role of Social Media Companies, Civil Society, and Public-Private-People Partnerships’. He highlighted trends in Malaysia where online dissemination of hate and extreme narratives often escalates during political events and controversies related to race and religion. These narratives risk transitioning from online spaces to real-world actions, including boycotts, rallies, and violent attacks.

Aizat emphasised INITIATE.MY’s commitment to multi-sectoral partnerships in preventing violent extremism, including research and sharing findings with law enforcement and social media companies. He stressed the importance of cross-sector collaboration, urging for dynamic engagement under the National Plan of Action on Prevention and Countering of Violent Extremism (NAPPCVE), led by the Home Affairs Ministry, to effectively preserve social harmony and prevent radicalisation.

The ASEAN-Australia Counter-Terrorism Workshop organised by the ASEAN Senior Officials Meeting on Transnational Crime (SOMTC)-Indonesia and Australia and facilitated by the Asia Foundation.

Luminate Discussion on Inclusivity
2024-03-04 08:00 - 17:00
Petaling Jaya, 4 March 2024 – INITIATE.MY participated in a discussion organised by Luminate Foundation, dedicated to fostering inclusivity in Malaysia. The event brought together a diverse ensemble of civil society organisers, independent consultants and researchers in Klang Valley.

The discussion revolved around participants’ visions of an inclusive Malaysia and collaborative strategies to realise these visions. INITIATE.MY actively contributed to the discussion by highlighting the organisation’s strengths in working with government agencies and data development to counter extremism and promote social cohesion. There is also a shared recommendation for improved funding mechanisms for CSOs to increase their work impact.

The discussion provided feedback also for future endeavours on improving inclusivity in Malaysia, identifying future needs for foundations that would want to work on this in Malaysia as well as partner organisations.

For INITIATE.MY, this was a great platform for knowledge enhancement and renewed commitment to drive positive change in Malaysia with like-minded organisations and practitioners.

The discussion brought together Civil Society Organisations, consultants, researchers, and funders highlighting the importance of inclusivity in society.

Regional Summit: Analysing Women’s Role in Terrorism in Southeast Asia
2024-03-05 08:00 - 2024-03-07 17:00
Semarang, 5-7 March 2024 – INITIATE.MY participated in the Regional Summit: Analysing Women’s Role in Terrorism in Southeast Asia co-organised by the The International Institute for Justice and the Rule of Law (IIJ) and the Jakarta Centre for Law Enforcement Cooperation (JCLEC). The summit brought together 54 criminal justice practitioners, academics, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and beyond from Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines. INITIATE.MY’s Board of Experts Member, Dr. Haezreena Begum and Project Coordinator, Hisham Muhaimi took part in the three-day summit held in Semarang, Indonesia.

The convening delved into the entire trajectory of women’s engagement in terrorism, commencing with the processes of radicalisation and recruitment into extremist organisations, both online and offline. Participants explored the varied motivations behind women’s involvement – whether it be support or direct participation in violent activities.

Additionally, the convening centred on strategies for collecting evidence to substantiate charges against radicalised women, the challenges and methods of repatriating women from conflict zones, and effective deradicalisation and reintegration programmes.

Dr. Haezreena Begum, spoke at a session on Criminal Justice Responses: Challenges and Innovations in Evidence-Based Investigations and Prosecutions of Women within Terrorist Groups. In her presentation, she explored the nexus between terrorism and human trafficking. Human trafficking within terrorism encompasses activities such as combat, suicide bombing, espionage, sexual servitude, childbirth, forced labour, and various other forms. These practices are facilitated through methods such as threats, coercion, abduction, and deception. Additionally, in certain cases, the allure of attractive benefits or financial compensation may also influence individuals to join terrorist groups.

She also spoke about the male saviour syndrome in managing women Foreign Terrorist Fighters (FTFs) and the need to have a proper victim protection framework in the context of Malaysia. Looking forward, she stressed that the law enforcement authorities and first responders have the ultimate responsibility to protect, respect, and fulfil women and children’s rights in the process of repatriation of women FTFs to Malaysia. Deradicalisation programmes for returnees and detainees should be implemented sensitively to avoid re-traumatisation.

The summit convened 54 professionals spanning criminal justice practitioners, academics, non-governmental organisations, and others from Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines. Delegates gathered to share recent research findings, discuss effective strategies, and address ongoing challenges encountered in managing terrorism cases involving women.

Extinguishing the Flames of Radicalisation BFM Podcast
2024-03-25 08:00 - 17:00
Kuala Lumpur, 25 March 2024 – In a recent BFM Podcast Evening Edition session titled “Extinguishing the Flames of Radicalisation,” Aizat Shamsuddin, Founder of INITIATE.MY, shed light on the complex pathways of radicalisation and the ongoing challenges in rehabilitating individuals towards a more positive trajectory. With Malaysia serving as a transnational nexus for diverse networks, including those espousing extremist ideologies and operating extremist organisations, concerns about radicalisation are prevalent, especially amidst ongoing geopolitical crises like the Israel-Palestine conflict.

He emphasised the importance of addressing the root causes of radicalisation, such as socio-economic marginalisation, lack of education, and feelings of alienation. He also stressed the need for effective rehabilitation programmes that focus on deradicalisation, reintegration, and psychosocial support. Aizat’s insights offer valuable guidance for various stakeholders such as policymakers, civil society practitioners, communities and even the corporate sector to work on countering violent extremism. To listen to the full podcast episode and learn more about Aizat’s insights, visit the BFM Podcast.

A snippet of Aizat’s interview on the BFM Podcast emphasises that violence isn’t the solution.

Tackling Hate Virtual Venom, Real-World Victims AWANI
2024-04-03 08:00 - 17:00
Kuala Lumpur, 3 April 2024 – Suyin Chia, Research Consultant at INITIATE.MY, recently participated in an interview on Astro Awani “Consider This” program titled “Tackling Hate: Virtual Venom, Real-World Victims”, alongside Dr. Ryan Chua from Pusat KOMAS and former Sungai Berut MP Tawfik Ismail. Suyin explored the alarming rise of dangerous content on social media and its potential to incite extremism tendencies such as intolerance and violence.

The discussion delved into the question of whether the digital realm has become a breeding ground for social divisiveness, and Suyin sheds light on the worrying rise of online hate speech and extremism in Malaysia following the general election. This content primarily targets minorities, refugees, the migrants and the tactics employed by hate mongers are diverse. They exploit historical narratives, like references to the May 13 racial riots, to stoke fear of renewed violence. International conflicts like the Israel-Palestine issue are weaponized to incite anti-minority sentiment, particularly against Rohingya refugees. Additionally, hateful content often utilises subtle messaging through music, memes, and videos, slipping through the cracks of content moderation tools.

Suyin emphasises the need for a multi-pronged approach to tackle this complex issue. Equipping citizens with digital literacy skills is crucial to empower them to fact-check information and counter online hate speech peacefully. Social media platforms like TikTok and Meta must also be held accountable for improving content moderation and detecting subtle hate content.

The most effective solutions, however, require a concerted effort from all sectors of society. Government, civil society, and tech companies need to work together. Initiatives like peace education programs can promote tolerance and understanding, while restorative justice measures like mandatory apologies and mediation can address the root causes of extremism and heal affected communities. Finally, adapting existing laws to address online hate speech with a focus on proportionality and restorative justice principles is essential.

This media appearance reflects INITIATE.MY’s commitment to tackling online extremism by raising public awareness about the risks and developing effective strategies to counter these risks. Visit AWANI YouTube Channel to watch the full interview.

Suyin Chia, representing INITIATE.MY highlighted the dangers of online hate speech and extremism in Malaysia, urging a multi-pronged approach to address the issue.

INITIATE.MY Strategic Planning Retreat 2024
2024-04-26 14:30 - 2024-04-28 15:00
Putrajaya, 26 – 28 April 2024 – INITIATE.MY organised a three-day Strategic Planning Retreat with its team and close local and international partners. The primary aim was to foster bonding and networking, deepen understanding of the organisation, promote growth, and express appreciation for the support and contributions received throughout the years.

Beyond reflecting on past achievements, the retreat served as a proactive environment for shaping the trajectory of the organisation for the next five years. The retreat featured a series of activities involving the Board of Experts and researchers, who delivered presentations on navigating various critical areas. These areas included Malaysian sociopolitics, online extremism, security sectors, and the global arena. Discussions also focused on how INITIATE.MY can enhance its data sharing and publication practices and diversify its sources of funding.

The retreat has also fostered genuine connections among participants. A carefully crafted itinerary of team-building exercises and networking opportunities cultivated bonds within the INITIATE.MY community. These interpersonal connections not only amplified the collaborative spirit within the organisation but also laid the groundwork for future endeavours.

At the end of the retreat, INITIATE.MY and it members affirms their commitment plan from 2024 – 2028 through 5 key strategies;

Enhancing research and development and advocacy publication.

INITIATE.MY will expand research on both violent and non-violent extremism, strategically plan impactful publications, leverage existing datasets for stakeholder engagement, and explore monetization opportunities for diverse audiences.

Maintaining collaboration with Malaysian authorities to democratise the security sector through Whole-of-Society and Whole-of-Government approaches.

INITIATE.MY will strengthen ties with Malaysian authorities, advocating for modernised policies and civil society involvement while expanding expertise and leverage relationships with foreign embassies and law enforcement for information sharing, implementing successful CSO-Police partnership strategies.

Engaging a broader range of stakeholders to enhance organisational impact.

INITIATE.MY will diversify outreach efforts by targeting youth, gender populations, and underserved regions, utilising local languages and collaborating with communities. The organisation will engage lawmakers and youth-focused entities to drive systemic change and garner support for PCVE initiatives.

Diversifying the organisation’s financial resources for long-term sustainability.

INITIATE.MY will diversify its funding sources by pursuing grants, exploring alternative business models, monetizing expertise, and collaborating with trade councils, chambers of commerce, and government entities.

Enhancing the organisation’s engagement in regional networks for broader impact, learning, and solidarity.

INITIATE.MY will strengthen its financial sustainability by joining relevant networks, forging partnerships with the corporate sector for CSR initiatives, and actively participating in international events for cross-border learning and resource sharing.

In the midst of a challenging political landscape, INITIATE.MY remains committed to fostering a cohesive and inclusive Malaysian nation while addressing the threats posed by both violent and non-violent extremism.

INITIATE.MY Strategic Planning Retreat 2024 wrapped up with cruise dining to convey our deepest appreciation for all of the support from our team members and partners.

Advisory Board Roundtable and Second Regional Meeting of the Thematic Working Group (TWG) on Strategic Communications, the Internet and Social Media
2024-05-14 00:00 - 2024-05-16 23:59
Kuala Lumpur, 14-16 May 2024 – Hisham Muhaimi, a Project Coordinator at INITIATE.MY, participated in the “Advisory Board Roundtable and Second Regional Meeting of the Thematic Working Group (TWG) on Strategic Communications, the Internet and Social Media”, organised by the Southeast Asia Regional Centre for Counterterrorism (SEARCCT) and the United Nations Office of Drugs and Crime (UNODC). During the event, he shared the strategic communications programming conducted by the organisation and contributed to the broader discussion on effective communication strategies for preventing violent extremism (PVE) among key stakeholders to enhance the regional capacities.

In Southeast Asia, UNODC is actively implementing a regional project aimed at addressing the evolving threats of online radicalisation and the exploitation of online spaces by violent extremist and terrorist groups. The gathering aimed to foster collaboration, share knowledge, and develop effective strategies to counter these threats.

In promoting this, UNODC has been technically supporting the establishment of a regional PVE network in Southeast Asia through a Preparatory Working Group of PVE Practitioners (PWG-PVE) of Southeast Asia as a regional cooperation platform to facilitate the sharing of knowledge and good practices across seven thematic areas, including strategic communications, the Internet, and social media.

The working group was operationalised during the group’s first meeting held in Kuala Lumpur on 28-29 March 2023. The meeting resulted in the development of tailored guidelines for developing and implementing effective strategic communication campaigns and narratives, addressing the specific needs and grievances of young people.

The event convened PCVE practitioners across Southeast Asia as key stakeholders to facilitate regional cooperation, peer learning and sharing of knowledge and good practices between government and civil society organisations.

Discussion on Enhancing Security Cooperation in and with Asia (ESIWA)
2024-05-15 00:00 - 23:59
Kuala Lumpur, 15 May 2024 – The Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH in collaboration with the Royal Malaysia Police, hosted a closed-door discussion on the reintegration of prisoners convicted of terrorism offences and individuals returning from conflict zones such as Syria and Iraq. This event was part of the ongoing initiative of Enhancing Security Cooperation in and with Asia (ESIWA) supported by the European Union.

The discussion brought together a diverse group of local and international experts, policymakers, and practitioners from Europe and Malaysia to address the complex challenges and best practices in reintegrating returnees into society. Key areas of focus included psychological support, community engagement, and the development of security policies.

The discussion focused on the research findings by Dr. Haezreena Begum, member of INITIATE.MY’s board of experts and Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Law at Universiti Malaya, commissioned under ESIWA. She examined the root causes of radicalisation with detailed individual accounts and assessed their responses to government’s rehabilitation and deradicalisation efforts and identified issues within their reintegration into the society.

Aizat Shamsuddin, founder of INITIATE.MY, presented the organisation’s research on the reintegration of former security detainees and their families. He stressed the importance of sustainable rehabilitation and reintegration (R&R) post-release to prevent recidivism. Achieving this goal requires stronger collaboration between the government, civil society, and the corporate sector, which could be facilitated through the forthcoming National Action Plan, “MyPCVE.”

Dr. Haezreena Begum, member of INITIATE.MY’s board of experts and the deputy dean of Faculty of Law, Universiti Malaya, presented her research findings on Malaysia’s reintegration programme.

Aizat Shamsuddin, founder of INITIATE.MY was conveying his ideas on the challenges and recommendations in the reintegration of former security detainees in Malaysia.

Interfaith Youth Alliance Gathering
2024-05-16 08:00 - 17:00
Subang Jaya, 16 May 2024 – INITIATE.MY participated in the first gathering of the Interfaith Youth Alliance (IYA) gathering, themed “Bridging Beliefs: Empowering Youth for Interfaith Dialogue,” which was a one-day event designed to unite around 45 interfaith youth leaders from across Malaysia. The gathering was organised by Architects of Diversity (AOD) and aimed to foster meaningful dialogue, collaboration, and the development of an active interfaith youth network. The event featured presentation, breakout sessions, and discussions involving policymakers, researchers, and youth leaders to promote a more peaceful, sustainable, and mutually understanding multifaith Malaysia. The event also featured a keynote speech delivered by YB Dr Kelvin Yii, who is an MP of Bandar Kuching.

Participants included representatives from religious organisations such as Persatuan Kebangsaan Pelajar Islam Malaysia (PKPIM), Borneo Evangelical Mission (BEM), and the Young Buddhist Association of Malaysia (YBAM), among others. The event provided a unique opportunity for youth and interfaith leaders to connect, fostering a community for productive discussions on interfaith issues and promoting interfaith harmony in Malaysia.

During the breakout session, INITIATE.MY engaged in the discussion on “Grassroots Action Planning for Youth-led Interfaith Initiatives at the Community Level.” Hisham Muhaimi, the Project Coordinator at INITIATE.MY, shared his experience participating in grassroots interfaith engagements organised by Komuniti Muslim Universal (KMU Malaysia) in 2018. He believed that more ground work and advocacy is needed to educate individuals on the significance of interfaith engagements in building social cohesion in a diverse Malaysian society.

This gathering emphasised the importance of building bridges between groups that typically have a few opportunities to network and understand each other. By empowering youth to engage in interfaith dialogue, the Interfaith Youth Alliance Gathering made significant strides towards creating a more harmonious and understanding multifaith Malaysia.

Amid rising religious tensions in Malaysia, the gathering stands as a symbol of unity against conflicts and violent extremism.

Advancing Civil Society Programming on Violent Extremism in Southeast Asia
2024-05-27 00:00 - 2024-05-29 23:59
Jakarta, 27-29 May 2024 – INITIATE.MY participated in a Community of Practice event in Indonesia, organised by the Global Center on Cooperative Security and the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Indonesia. This workshop, titled “Advancing Civil Society Programming on Violent Extremism in Southeast Asia,” brought together civil society organisations and researchers dedicated to preventing and countering violent extremism.The event gathered representatives from across Southeast Asia, all of whom have partnered with the Kingdom of the Netherlands and the Global Center on Cooperative Security over the past five years. This collaborative effort aims to share key insights, practices, and experiences to enhance civil society programming in the region. Our project coordinator, Hisham Muhaimi was particularly involved in the session on Community Resilience and Early Warning System (EWERS).Based on a policy brief published by INITIATE.MY, Hisham suggested that universities should build their capacity to implement EWERS effectively by training staff and students to recognise early signs of radicalisation and respond promptly. He emphasised the need for conducting due diligence on university staff and students to ensure a safe campus community environment. He also recommended the monitoring of usrah (religious study group) activities to prevent the spread of extremist ideologies. Additionally, he proposed enhancing community social media surveillance to identify and counteract potential threats from early on. These strategies, Hisham argued, are crucial for creating resilient and vigilant campus communities that can effectively prevent the risks of violent extremism.

The event brings together representatives of CSOs and researchers who have partnered with the Kingdom of the Netherlands and the Global Center on Cooperative Security to implement initiatives on preventing and countering violent extremism (P/CVE) over the past five years.

Peace Lab for Religious Leaders & Thinkers (PLRT) Summit 2024
2024-07-28 09:00 - 15:00
Background

The Peace Lab for Religious Leaders & Thinkers (PLRT) is a youth empowerment programme jointly organised by INITIATE.MY, the Malaysian Youth Council (MBM), and Malaysian Youth Diplomacy (MyDiplomacy). It is dedicated to mitigating radicalisation risks and nurturing social resilience in Malaysia’s multi-racial and religious society, building upon the accomplishments of the Peace Lab for Youth (PLY) in 2021.PLRT adopts and supports the Youth, Peace, and Security (YPS) agenda by adhering to the landmark resolutions passed by the United Nations Security Council. They are Resolutions 2250, 2419, and 2535 that have recognised the pivotal role of youth as agents of peace and security.The summit will showcase a keynote speech and public forum to discuss the role of youth in peace and security , featuring notable speakers with stellar background in youth advocacies. Participants will also exhibit their projects to the public through booth setups and engage in substantive dialogue with esteemed audiences. The end of the summit will be marked by a ceremonial presentation of certificates to participants, acknowledging their significant achievements.

Target Audience

60 Participants from Civil Society Organisations, Academia, Youth and Religious Leaders, and the Public.

Agenda

9.00 AM – 9.45 AM: Registration9.45 AM – 10.30 AM: Housekeeping Notes, Keynote Speech & Opening Remarks10.30 AM – 10.35 AM: Group Performance10.35 AM – 11.25 AM: Booth Tour & Networking11.25 AM – 11.30 AM: Group Performance11.30 AM – 1.00 PM: Public Forum on “Youth as Peace Agents or Otherwise?”1.00 PM – 1.45 PM: Closing Ceremony1.45 PM – 3.00 PM: Wrap-Up & Lunch

Speakers

Kasthuri PattoSteering Committee MemberThe International Panel of Parliamentarians for Freedom of Religion or Belief (IPPFoRB)

Kasthuri Patto is currently the Deputy International Secretary for the International Affairs Department of her party, the Democratic Action Party (DAP) and the Vice Chair of the Women’s Wing of her party. She was also recently appointed as the Chairperson of the Housewives Social Protection Scheme under Malaysia’s Social Security Organisation (SOCSO) to promote a social protection scheme for all housewives in Malaysia. She served for two terms as a Member of Parliament for the constituency of Batu Kawan, Penang and served as the President of Parliamentarians for Global Action (PGA) a coalition of more than 1200 lawmakers from democratically elected Parliaments from 2021 to 2022. She also served as a member of the Parliamentary Special Select Committee for International Affairs and is currently a Steering Group member of the International Panel of Parliamentarians for Freedom of Religion and Belief (IPPFORB). Kasthuri is also an abolitionist against the death penalty and has been lobbying to see an end to child marriages in Malaysia. She has been a critical voice against forced labour, human trafficking, custodial deaths, enforced disappearances, citizenship matters and the use of draconian laws in the name of national security. She is a fierce and familiar voice on the promotion and protection of women’s and children’s rights and wishes to see a more inclusive and just Malaysia, and the world.

Jason WeeCo-Founder & Executive DirectorArchitects of Diversity (AoD)

Jason Wee is the Co-Founder and Executive Director of Architects of Diversity, a youth-led non-profit organisation that bridges communities and identity groups among youth in Malaysia for justice, peace and a sustainable future. Since 2018, AOD has worked towards the promotion of diversity and inclusion in Malaysia by empowering young leaders as champions of inclusivity, pioneering ideas and processes for social cohesion, and building an enabling environment for legislative change towards equity and inclusion. He is a graduate of Princeton University’s School of Public and International Affairs, specialising in Race, Ethnicity and Discrimination.

Hari ShankarData AnalystInitiative to Promote Tolerance and Prevent Violence (INITIATE.MY)

Hari Shankar is a data analyst at INITIATE.MY, supporting the organisation’s research initiatives on intergroup tensions and violent extremism, and is also an alumnus of Peace Lab for Youth (PLY). Prior to working with INITIATE.MY, he was an intercultural communications researcher and educator in Japan, coaching youths of various nationalities on overcoming cultural barriers to develop mutual understanding and cooperation. Hari is a strong advocate of decision-making using data and evidence, actively leveraging his professional background in data science by advising organisations in both the non-profit and corporate sectors on the effective utilisation of data and artificial intelligence. He is currently pursuing a master’s degree in applied statistics at Universiti Malaya.

Calvin OhseyMemberRoman Catholic Church

Calvin Ohsey Anak Ah Sen is a multifaceted professional with a wealth of experience spanning various fields. Currently serving as a Special Officer to the Member of Parliament, P.192 Mas Gading, he provides invaluable support in political strategy, parliamentary affairs, research, media liaison, and constituency relations. With a background in translation, event management, consulting, and pastoral work within the Roman Catholic Diocese, Calvin brings a unique blend of skills and expertise to his role. His commitment to service, coupled with his adaptability and dedication, underscores his passion for making a meaningful impact in his community and beyond.

Elisa ShafiqahHead AdvisorMalaysian Youth Diplomacy

Elisa Shafiqah Shahrilnizam is the Head Advisor of Malaysian Youth Diplomacy, a focal point youth movement in Malaysia aims to empower youth with diplomatic opportunities. She has extensive experience working with the Ministry of Defence Malaysia focusing on contemporary security and Ministry of Foreign Affairs Malaysia working in several multilateral negotiations and being involved as the first Malaysian UN Youth Delegate. Under her chairmanship at MyDiplomacy, she has contributed to promoting youth-led diplomacy and has impacted more than 5000 youths resulting in her to be awarded with the ASEAN Youth Peace Figure. She reads BA (International and Strategic Studies) in Universiti Malaya focusing on chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) threats, Malaysia’s multilateral foreign policy and mechanism of UNSCR1325 and UNSCR2250 (Women and Youth, Peace Security). At the moment, Elisa holds the position of the Asian representative to the International Steering Group of United Network of Young Peacebuilders which works closely with the United Nations to advise the Secretary General on implementation of UNSCR2250.

Workshop on Community-Based Rehabilitation and Reintegration against Violent Extremism
2024-08-13 00:00 - 23:59
Yogyakarta, 13 August 2024 – INITIATE.MY had the opportunity to take part in a three-day workshop centred around “Community-Based Rehabilitation and Reintegration against Violent Extremism,” which was organised by the South East Asian Network of Civil Society Organisations (SEAN-CSO). This workshop brought together representatives from Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, Thailand, the Philippines, and Australia, who work in the rehabilitation and reintegration programme for individuals involved in violent extremism.

During the workshop, key organisations such as Empatiku Foundation, the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs, PeaceGeneration (PeaceGen) Indonesia, Duay Jai Group and IMAN Research shared their valuable insights on community-based rehabilitation and reintegration (CBRR). The aim was to foster a deep understanding of the challenges and solutions faced in the programme, with a particular focus on incorporating soft approaches, creating safe spaces for returnees, and advocating for the provision of second chances, regardless of individual’s religious beliefs and ideologies.

Falisha Aufiya, Project Officer at INITIATE.MY, presented the specific challenges encountered by former security detainees upon release from prison, which are unique to the Malaysian context. This presentation provided the key challenges faced by the former security detainees in Malaysia for the attendees. The challenges included social stigma, fractured family relationships and limited socioeconomic opportunities due to unsuccessful reintegration. Therefore, inter-agency coordination, cooperation with civil society and specialised training for government officials are important to improve support structures and promote successful reintegration.

Participants from Indonesia and the Philippines emphasised the need to address community stigma and foster acceptance for returnees. Rather than trying to change returnees’ beliefs, these initiatives focus on creating supportive environments that allow them to engage socially with the community members, find employment, and contribute positively to the community. This approach strengthens social cohesion and empowers individuals to redefine their roles in society.

For Malaysian CSOs, including INITIATE.MY, these examples underscore the positive impact of enhancing community-based rehabilitation and reintegration efforts by prioritising public perceptions and creating avenues for meaningful community involvement. Adopting these strategies could be instrumental in strengthening Malaysia’s deradicalisation programme in line with the Malaysian Action Plan on Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism (MyPCVE).

Participants visited the Rumah Komunitas Omah Betakan, Yogyakarta – a community-based rehabilitation and reintegration centre for returnees, established by Dr Noor Huda Ismail and Yayasan Literasi Desa Tumbuh.

The Digital Rights in the Asia-Pacific (DRAPAC) Assembly
2024-08-18 08:00 - 2024-08-19 17:00
Taiwan, 18-19 August 2024 – INITIATE.MY participated in the Digital Rights in the Asia-Pacific (DRAPAC) Assembly, held in Taipei, Taiwan, from August 18-19, 2024. EngageMedia organised the event that brought together civil society organisations, journalists, activists, and technology experts to address the growing challenges to digital rights in the Asia-Pacific region. Shaik Irfan, Programme Associate, and Hari Shankar, Data Analyst at INITIATE.MY participated in this assembly.

The two-day assembly featured plenary sessions, hands-on workshops, digital security labs, and networking opportunities aimed at strengthening alliances and building collective strategies to tackle digital threats.

The assembly highlighted a few important points:

The growing influence of technology on elections, with governments in countries like Cambodia and Bangladesh exploiting social media to control narratives and suppress political dissents. This trend underscores the abuse of digital tools for political control.

There were discussions on the increase in cyberattacks across ASEAN nations, alongside concerns about the misuse of mass surveillance under the pretext of national security.

The importance of media literacy to combat misinformation, particularly during election periods. There were also calls for stronger data protection and privacy laws to safeguard individuals’ rights.

The team engaged with organisations like What to Fix to understand how social media platforms profit from misinformation. They also explored models like iMAP for monitoring internet censorship.

DRAPAC24 broadened INITIATE.MY’s understanding of digital governance across the Asia-Pacific, equipping the team to better safeguard digital rights, especially in regions with restrictive freedom of expression. The event provided practical tools for integrating digital rights into efforts to counter the abuse of technology in online hate and violent extremism.

As Malaysia moves into the implementation phase of the Action Plan on Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism (MyPCVE), building strong cross-sector partnerships—including collaboration with tech companies—will be essential to creating open and resilient digital communities across Malaysia and the Asia-Pacific region.

INITIATE.MY team at DRAPAC24 in Taiwan. DRAPAC24 aimed to stimulate collective brainstorming and forge alliances in response to the evolving digital threats in the Asia-Pacific.

The Lecture on Human Rights and the Rule of Law in the Context of International Terrorism - The Malaysian Perspective by Tun Richard Malanjum
2024-08-23 00:00 - 23:59
Rights and the Rule of Law in the Context of International Terrorism – The Malaysian Perspective” organised by the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM).

The lecture was presented by the former chief justice of Malaysia and the current ombudsperson of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) 1267 Sanctions Committee, Tun Richard Malanjum. He looked into the application of international human rights frameworks, including the United Nations Charter, on Malaysia’s legal approach to counterterrorism.

He discussed the importance of judicial oversight to ensure these measures do not compromise civil liberties by highlighting key laws such as the Security Offences (Special Measures) Act (SOSMA 2012) and Prevention of Terrorism Act (POTA 2015), which enable preventive detention. The lecture also addressed the impact of UN sanctions on individuals linked to terrorism, with him emphasising the Ombudsperson’s role in reviewing sanctions to uphold fairness. Overall, Malaysia is committed to balancing effective counterterrorism strategies with the protection of fundamental human rights.

INITIATE.MY team is also committed to incorporate the balance of human rights protection in security measures. The organisation has done this through a training series with law enforcement officers in 2023 on Community and Serviced-Oriented Policing (CSOP) covering the topics that include “Do No Harm Approach”, Mendez Principles, human rights affirming approach during investigative interviews and policing.

This effort should be continuous. Especially as INITIATE.MY aims to play a more proactive role in supporting effective and sustainable reintegration of former security detainees or prisoners beyond punitive measures by prioritising their rights to work, participate in community activities and get access to mental health support.

Tun Richard Malanjum was delivering a public lecture on “Human Rights and the Rule of Law in the Context of International Terrorism – The Malaysian Perspective” organised by Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)..

UNODC Workshop on “Preventing Violent Extremism: Radicalisation, Rehabilitation & Reintegration, A Journey Back to Society”
2024-09-03 00:00 - 2024-09-06 23:59
Langkawi, 3-6 September 2024 – INITIATE.MY participated in the “Preventing Violent Extremism: Radicalisation, Rehabilitation & Reintegration – A Journey Back to Society” workshop, co-organised by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and the Correctional Academy of Malaysia (AKM). Over the course of three days, the workshop gathered more than 40 key government officers actively engaged in the rehabilitation programme for VEPs.

This workshop was aimed at strengthening Malaysia’s capacity for rehabilitating and reintegrating violent extremist prisoners (VEPs) and high-risk prisoners and emphasising holistic approaches to reintegration through collaboration between governmental bodies and community-based organisations both pre- and post-release.

The workshop highlighted expert perspectives and interactive sessions on various aspects of violent extremism. Dr. Haezreena Begum, a Board of Experts member at INITIATE.MY and a senior lecturer from the University of Malaya, delivered an insightful presentation on ideological and non-ideological drivers of violent extremism. She emphasised the importance of understanding root causes for creating an effective rehabilitation framework.

In another session, Hisham Muhaimi, Project Coordinator at INITIATE.MY, highlighted the critical role of family and civil society in supporting the reintegration of VEPs. He emphasised the importance of building resilient community networks through a multi-stakeholder approach that fosters collaboration among government agencies, enforcement authorities, civil society organisations, community leaders, and families. Such engagement, he noted, is vital for facilitating reintegration and reducing the risk of recidivism.

The event also included perspectives from representatives of the Southeast Asia Regional Centre for Counter-Terrorism (SEARCCT) and the Royal Police of Malaysia (RMP), and other government agencies such as the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM), the Legal Affairs Division of the Prime Minister’s Department (BHEUU), and the Department of Social Welfare Malaysia (JKM).

The workshop concluded with a collaborative session where attendees developed a roadmap to guide interagency efforts in preventing violent extremism in Malaysia’s national security agenda – aligned with the Malaysia National Plan of Action for Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism (MyPCVE).

INITIATE.MY remains committed to supporting comprehensive and inclusive strategies in the rehabilitation and reintegration of VEPs and working closely with AKM, UNODC, and other key security stakeholders.

A unified group of professionals from Malaysian government and civil society committed to advancing rehabilitation and reintegration strategies in addressing violent extremism.

Youth Consultation on Countering Online Extremism in Malaysia
2024-09-26 00:00 - 23:59
Zoom, 26 September 2024 一 INITIATE.MY hosted an online consultation on “Countering Online Extremism in Malaysia,” bringing together around 20 youth representatives and student-led organisations from across the country. The discussion focused on the growing misuse of social media platforms, particularly TikTok, and AI technologies to spread divisive ideologies rooted in race, religion, and politics. Presentations highlighted critical findings on the manipulation of historical events, such as the May 13 racial riots, by far-right groups. These groups exploit conspiracy theories and societal fears to undermine trust in democratic institutions.

Researchers from INITIATE.MY proposed several actionable solutions, including the enhancement of AI-driven moderation tools guided by local expertise, the integration of peace education into the national curriculum, and the development of community-driven outreach initiatives to responsibly address historical grievances. Participants discussed strategies to counter extremist content, emphasising the importance of youth-led interventions and restorative justice to rehabilitate individuals spreading dangerous ideologies.

The consultation resulted in immediate outcomes, with youth leaders and organisations gaining greater awareness and practical tools to combat far-right extremism. Participants left with actionable strategies to address challenges like AI-driven misinformation and the exploitation of social media platforms such as TikTok. The event also reinforced INITIATE.MY’s role as a key organisation in mobilising youth-led efforts, building resilience against extremism, and fostering collaboration with diverse stakeholders.

The consultation will inform INITIATE.MY’s research on online extremism and guide advocacy initiatives, including policies to integrate peace education into the national curriculum and strategies to combat hate and misinformation among youth. Participants expressed optimism about empowering youth organisations to lead inclusivity campaigns, improve digital literacy, and create safe spaces for dialogue. INITIATE.MY has done such a programme called Peace Lab for Religious Leaders and Thinkers (PLRT). These efforts are essential for protecting Malaysia’s democratic values and social cohesion.

INITIATE.MY and participants from youth-and student-led organisations across the country.

Launching Ceremony of Malaysia Action Plan on Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism (MyPCVE)
2024-09-30 00:00 - 23:59
Putrajaya, 30 September 2024 – INITIATE.MY was invited to attend the Launch Ceremony of Malaysia Action Plan on Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism (MyPCVE) organised by the Ministry of Home Affairs Malaysia. MyPCVE was developed to coordinate actions to deal with the threat of violent extremism based on four pillars, namely prevention, enforcement, rehabilitation, and reinforcement.It is supposedly aimed at addressing political, racial, social, religious, and foreign influences that contribute to the growth of violent extremism.

Hisham Muhaimi, Project Coordinator, Qiana Falisha Aufiya Jessica, Project Officer, Eow Shiang Yen, Communications Officer, and Shaik Irfan, Program Associate attended the launch event on behalf of INITIATE.MY as a civil society and non-profit stakeholder.

The launch started with a forum on ‘Adapting to New Emerging Threats of Violent Extremism’ discussing the emerging threats of violent extremism observed and the lessons learnt from the perspective of local authorities and academicians.

It was followed by a speech by YB Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail, Minister of Home Affairs who emphasised the importance of a combination of soft and hard approaches in dealing with extremism and violence. YAB Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Prime Minister in his opening speech stressed the importance of collaboration and support between countries and between authorities with civil society organisations to address complex security issues. .

INITIATE.MY looks forward to a proactive role of CSOs in the action plan of MyPCVE in order to democratise the security sector. This is consistent with the organisation’s report Special Report and Policy Brief Issue 1 where it is important to empower CSOs and collaborate with them to effectively address violent extremism threats.

INITIATE.MY team at the MyPCVE launch event. INITIATE.MY looks forward to the role of CSOs being included and outlined clearly in the full version of MyPCVE in line with whole-of-government and whole-of-society approaches in addressing violent extremism issues.

Expert Consultation on Countering Online Extremism in Malaysia with Civil Society Organisations
2024-10-03 00:00 - 23:59
Kuala Lumpur, 3 October 2024 – INITIATE.MY convened a consultation on “Countering Online Extremism in Malaysia,” bringing together approximately 40 representatives from civil society organisations across the country. The session addressed the growing threat of far-right online extremism, which undermines public trust in institutions and disrupts social cohesion within Malaysia’s diverse, multi-racial, and multi-religious society.

Participants critically evaluated current policies and highlighted several key weaknesses. They observed that existing laws primarily focus on punitive measures, such as arrests and censorship, rather than prevention. Additionally, the lack of a coordinated strategy between government agencies, civil society, and technology platform providers significantly weakens the effectiveness of counter-extremism efforts. The insufficient involvement of communities in policy-making was also emphasised, often resulting in measures that fail to reflect the cultural and social complexities of Malaysia’s population.

To address these challenges, participants proposed actionable measures. They recommended strengthening digital literacy programmes to empower citizens to recognise and counter extremist content. Greater collaboration between government, civil society, and technology companies was urged to establish effective mechanisms for monitoring and addressing extremist narratives online. Participants also called for revising laws to prioritise prevention and rehabilitation, including deradicalisation initiatives, while safeguarding freedom of speech and privacy. Importantly, they emphasised the need for inclusive policy-making that involves diverse communities to ensure culturally sensitive strategies that build trust and inclusivity.

The findings and recommendations from this consultation will contribute to ongoing research by INITIATE.MY on online extremism in Malaysia. This research aims to provide evidence-based guidance to inform more effective and inclusive policies, strengthen national security and social cohesion in Malaysia.

Aziff Azuddin, a researcher involved in INITIATE.MY’s current study on online extremism, set the stage for the consultation by outlining the background and providing context for the discussion.

Participants proposed the concept of “peace troopers” as a strategy to promote fact-checking in an engaging and constructive manner, aimed at diversifying online counter-narrative efforts.

INITIATE.MY’s Courtesy Visits to Astro AWANI, Malaysiakini, and BFM89.9
2024-10-17 00:00 - 23:59
Kuala Lumpur and Selangor, 7 and 17 October 2024 – INITIATE.MY conducted courtesy visits to Astro AWANI, Malaysiakini, and BFM89.9. These visits provided a platform for knowledge exchange, where INITIATE.MY shared its research on online extremism, hate speech, and the abuse of AI, while gaining insights into the media outlets’ editorial processes and strategies for addressing sensitive issues.

At Astro AWANI, discussions focused on the integration of AI technologies in newsroom operations, particularly in content creation and moderation. The team emphasised the importance of maintaining human oversight to preserve emotional intelligence and journalistic integrity. They also shared their approach to curating content in sensitive areas, such as national security and geopolitics such as the Israel-Palestine conflict to ensure facts-based reporting. Astro AWANI emphasised the importance of collaboration with organisations like INITIATE.MY to identify and mitigate dangerous narratives online.

At Malaysiakini and BFM89.9, the dialogue centred on how media platforms can serve as a space for diverse perspectives, enabling more nuanced coverage of sensitive topics and promoting constructive dialogue that goes beyond polarising polarising narratives. Discussions also touched on the media’s role in supporting the government’s policy document such as the Malaysian Action Plan on Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism (MyPCVE). The conversations also underscored how civil society organisations and media outlets can work together to combat extremist ideologies both online and offline.

INITIATE.MY recognised the importance of media as a key stakeholder on preventing and countering violent extremism due to their role in shaping public discourse, providing accurate information, and offering critical perspectives that can help mitigate the spread of extremist behaviours. Collaboration between civil society organisations and the media is also essential in creating a safer, more informed society where diverse views are respected, and extremist narratives are effectively challenged.

INITIATE.MY team took a group photo with Nik Nuur Azam Shah Mohd Shah @ Nik Mohd Shah, Associate and Multiformat Journalism of Astro Awani Network Sdn. Bhd.

The INITIATE.MY team, accompanied by Dr. Haezreena Begum, Criminologist and Senior Lecturer at the Faculty of Law, University of Malaya (UM), took a group photo with the BFM89.9 team, led by Sharaad Kuttan, Presenter, Producer, and Editorial Strategist at BFM89.9.

INITIATE.MY’s Courtesy Visits to The Star and Sin Chew Daily
2024-10-23 00:00 - 23:59
Selangor, 23 October 2024 – INITIATE.MY conducted courtesy visits to The Star and Sin Chew Daily to explore potential collaborations in raising awareness on extremism, religious freedom, and tolerance.

At The Star, discussions focused on how the media can partner with INITIATE.MY to address growing concerns over far-right extremism and online hate speech. Hariati Azizan and The Star’s editorial team highlighted their role in moderating narratives and stressed the importance of responsible reporting on sensitive issues like extremism. Hisham Muhaimi, Project Coordinator at INITIATE.MY, shared the organisation’s latest research findings on far-right extremism, emphasising the growing influence of online platforms in spreading divisive content.

The visit to Sin Chew Daily centred on the media’s role in shaping public understanding of these critical issues within Malaysia’s diverse societal landscape. Kuik Cheng Kang from Sin Chew Daily reaffirmed the publication’s commitment to highlighting positive stories of interfaith and intercultural collaboration. He invited INITIATE.MY to contribute research and insights that could support their efforts to foster an inclusive and harmonious society.

Both media outlets expressed strong interest in using their platforms to amplify INITIATE.MY’s advocacy work. Discussions included utilising INITIATE.MY’s databases and reports to guide nuanced and balanced reporting on complex issues. INITIATE.MY emphasised the importance of engaging media outlets in multiple languages to reach diverse readerships and raise broader awareness. The organisation also recognised media as key stakeholders in its capacity-building initiatives, contributing to a whole-of-society approach to countering extremism and promoting religious freedom and tolerance.

INITIATE.MY team posed for a group photo with Hariati Azizan, Deputy Editor of Sunday Star, Ivy Soon, Deputy Executive Editor of StarLifestyle, and Vicky Ooi, Deputy Executive Editor of StarMetro and StarChrono from The Star Media Group.

INITIATE.MY team took a group photo with Kuik Cheng Kang, MCIL Group Editor-in-Chief (Malaysia) and Editor-in-Chief, Allen Hwn Yaul Len, Deputy Executive Editor-in-Chief (News/Features/Cross-Media Collaboration), and Lee Jia Hui, Reporter at Sin Chew Daily. (Photo © Sin Chew Daily).

Aftercare Assistance for Former Security Detainees and Their Family Members
2024-10-25 00:00 - 2024-11-05 23:59
Malaysia, 25 October – 5 November 2024 – INITIATE.MY, in collaboration with the Royal Malaysia Police’s Special Branch Counterterrorism Department (E8), has launched an aftercare assistance programme to support former security detainees (FSDs) and their families in reintegrating into society. Civil society organisations (CSOs) like INITIATE.MY play a vital role in bridging the gap between former detainees and the resources needed to rebuild their lives. These efforts aim to provide second chances, reduce recidivism, and foster social cohesion.

Reintegration for FSDs comes with significant challenges. Community stigma often isolates them, making it difficult to secure stable employment or access essential services. Many FSDs and their families also face financial instability, limited opportunities for skill development, and mental health struggles from their detention experience. These barriers hinder their ability to reintegrate as contributing members of society. For more information, INITIATE.MY has published a policy brief titled “Opportunities

A key aspect of the aftercare programme is providing socioeconomic support to FSDs and their families. So far, INITIATE.MY has assisted two families with food baskets, cash donations, and a sewing machine to help generate income. Special thanks go to Dr. Haezreena Begum Abdul Hamid, Deputy Dean of Higher Degree at the Faculty of Law, University of Malaya, and Hisham Muhaimi, INITIATE.MY Project Coordinator for facilitating the connection and coordinating the handover of donations.

The partnership between INITIATE.MY and the Special Branch Counterterrorism Department demonstrates the importance of collaboration in countering extremism and supporting reintegration, aligning with the objectives of the Malaysian Action Plan on Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism (MyPCVE).

To support our aftercare assistance programme, please fill out this form. We will reach out to you and we welcome all forms of donations.

Dr. Haezreena Begum was delivering donation items with the two beneficiaries of INITIATE.MY’s aftercare assistance programme, supported by the Royal Malaysia Police’s Special Branch Counterterrorism Department (E8).

Hisham Muhaimi was delivering donation items with the beneficiary of INITIATE.MY’s aftercare assistance programme.

Study Visit to Kajang Men’s Prison
2024-11-14 00:00 - 23:59
Kajang, Selangor, 14 November 2024 – The Initiative to Promote Tolerance and Prevent Violence (INITIATE.MY) participated in a study visit to Kajang Men’s Prison. Organised by Dr. Haezreena Begum, a Board of Expert Member at INITIATE.MY and Deputy Dean at the Faculty of Law, University of Malaya, the visit marked INITIATE.MY’s second engagement with the prison community, following a December 2023 visit to Kajang Women’s Prison.

The visit offered valuable insights into the daily lives of male inmates, their routines, and the facilities within the prison, including dormitories, the clinic, and the canteen. The prison enforces strict rules to foster discipline and encourage behavioural improvement.

During a briefing, a prison officer explained Malaysia’s gradual shift from a punitive to a correctional prison system. This reform focuses on discipline, spiritual activities, and vocational training, such as woodworking, cooking, and bread baking, with the bread being used to feed the prison community. However, challenges such as mental health issues, peer influences, and contraband smuggling persist and require targeted actions for more effective rehabilitation. The officer also emphasised that prison life must remain distinct from life outside to maintain order and discipline.

One remarkable success story shared during the visit involved an inmate detained under Tahanan Limpah Sultan (TLS) since 2001, at the age of 14. After spending over 20 years in prison, he expressed profound remorse for his past crime. During his incarceration, he earned a PhD in Business Administration, highlighting the prison department’s dedication to supporting inmates committed to self-improvement. In December 2024, he was granted a royal pardon by the Sultan of Selangor, Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah, during the Sultan’s birthday celebration. This pardon offered him a second chance to reintegrate into society and rebuild his life.

INITIATE.MY commends Kajang Men’s Prison for its progressive correctional practices that prioritise rehabilitation over punishment. Other prisons in Malaysia should adopt similar approaches to enhance inmate rehabilitation and reintegration. To strengthen these efforts, the Ministry of Home Affairs, independent experts, and civil society organisations must invest in research to identify areas for reform and develop a comprehensive reintegration programme for former inmates, as INITIATE.MY has long advocated for ex-security prisoners.

INITIATE.MY team, along with students and lecturers from Universiti Malaya and officers from Kajang Men’s Prison, concluded the study visit with a group photo in front of the main gate of Kajang Prison.
