THE proposed amendments to the Security Offences (Special Measures) Act 2012 (Sosma) will allow the law to better safeguard peace and public order, said Muhyiddin Yassin.

The home minister said among the provisions to be reviewed is the 28-day detention period, which some believe is too long.

“Yesterday, I was told that the 28-day detention under Sosma is too long, a torture. We take note of this view, but we also have to take into consideration police’s opinion as they are the enforcers of anti-terrorism laws,” he told a press conference after visiting the Pekan Nanas police station today.

He said it has been suggested that the detention period be shortened to 14 days, with extension applications to be made in the courts.

“There will be checks and balances.

“What has been decided by Pakatan Harapan, including the pledges in its election manifesto, remains. We will not abolish Sosma, but we will amend it.”

Engagement sessions with stakeholders, including MPs, the Bar Council and academics, will be held before the proposed changes are finalised and submitted to the cabinet for approval, he said.

It was reported that Muhyiddin said Putrajaya is expected to table the proposed amendments to Sosma in Parliament next March.

Today, he said the government is committed to tackling all cross-border crime and terrorism, and is not focusing only on the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam.

“We need international cooperation, and we need to step up enforcement. We share information with like-minded countries (to combat terrorism).” – Bernama, November 8, 2019.