Saifuddin said the arrests were made during three operations in Selangor and Johor starting April 24.

He said five of the individuals were involved in terrorism and had been charged in the sessions courts in Shah Alam, Selangor, and Johor.

“Another 15 individuals have been issued deportation orders, while 16 others are still under investigation for their suspected involvement in the militant movement,” he said in a statement.

Saifuddin said the group was found to be promoting extremist ideology linked to the Islamic State.

“They even established cells within their community with the aim of spreading radical ideology, raising funds for terrorist activities, and overthrowing the government in their home country,” he added.

He said Malaysia would not house foreign extremist movements, or be a medium for their subversive actions, and that threats to national security would not be taken lightly.

“Any attempt to turn Malaysia into a militant operations base or a transit hub for extremist movements will be met with firm, swift, and effective action,” Saifuddin said.