“That is a serious statement that we cannot take lightly, especially if it is confirmed by the US. We also have such evidence.”

A US government report on terrorism last year named Malaysia as a “source and transit point” for terrorist groups like the Islamic State, Abu Sayyaf, al-Qaeda and Jemaah Islamiyah.

Yesterday, Bukit Aman’s counter-terrorism chief Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay confirmed Malaysia remained a “transit point” for terrorist groups as those entering from most Middle East nations and certain African countries did not require a visa.

Speaking to reporters at the Parliament lobby today, Muhyiddin said most individuals could visit Malaysia easily if they entered using a passport issued by a country that was not deemed “problematic”.

“But if they need visas for specific reasons, then we impose visa requirements. That is the rule we have now.”

Meanwhile, Muhyiddin said amendments to the Security Offences (Special Measures) Act 2012 might be made in the March 2020 sitting of Parliament.

He added that Cabinet members had previously asked the ministry to fine-tune proposed amendments when the Cabinet paper was presented to them a few months ago.

“There are a few matters that have yet to be completed. At the ministry stage, we are ready, but we are still waiting if there are other parties who may want to give their views. Once that is done, we will bring it to the Cabinet again.”

He added that the Cabinet had suggested fine-tuning matters such as the 28-day remand under the law and on the potential abuse of Sosma.

He said there were suggestions to halve the duration period to 14 days. “And if the police want to continue the remand for another 14 days to make it a total of 28 days, they must bring the matter to court and require a judge’s decision.”

The home ministry had earlier formed a committee to study Sosma in line with a Pakatan Harapan (PH) pledge to amend draconian provisions.

Engagements were carried out with the Malaysian Bar, civil society, the police and the public, among others.