Description
Since 9/11, terrorism has brought Islam and Muslims under close scrutiny from the local, regional and global communities. Reports show that terrorists use many creative ways to recruit youth using the latest technology that youth are comfortable with, such as postings on the internet and by engaging in chat rooms.
These terrorists do not recruit only disgruntled or marginalised youth. Recent terror incidents in Europe show them having won over youth who come from good families and are well- educated, who somehow feel marginalised or see extremist activities as fighting for Islam. In light of this, Muslim communities need to develop safeguards and strong defences against the threat of radicalisation.
We will need to educate our youth the skills on how to detect radical elements on the internet, in chat rooms, among foreigners and preachers or even from friends who have been converted to Islamic radicals. They should not only know about these but also report such ideology and militancy to the authorities as part of their national service.
However, one must never forget that the community also has a part to play. All ethnic groups should aim to work together in identifying, sieving and eradicating radical thinking and behaviour. The community must stay sensitive and supportive of one another and work in sync to oppose terrorism.
