Ayob Khan keluar joging sambil diintip Islamic State

Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay, a prominent figure in Malaysia's anti-terrorism efforts, was recently spotted jogging while being targeted by members of the Islamic State (IS) group. Known for his constant vigilance, especially when leading anti-terrorism operations in Bukit Aman, Khan was aware that his jogging routine at Tasik Perdana Park was being monitored by IS operatives.

These individuals were tracking the movements of several government officials, including then-Prime Minister Khalid Abu Bakar, who frequently used a motorcycle convoy for Saturday meetings.

Khan revealed that he had learned about this surveillance through intelligence shared by fellow anti-terrorism operatives. He emphasized the importance of extra safety measures, such as bulletproof vehicles, route diversions, and increased situational awareness. These precautions were developed during his time combating the communist insurgency in Malaysia (1950s–1980s).

He advocated for specific legislation, such as the Security Offences (Special Measures) Act 2012 (Sosma), to effectively combat serious security threats, including terrorism and premeditated crimes. Sosma faced criticism and skepticism but Khan argued that it was crucial for handling serious security threats, particularly terrorism and planned crimes.

However, Khan stressed that this did not mean he wanted the Internal Security Act 1960 (ISA) reinstated, which allowed indefinite detention without trial. ISA was abolished in 2012 and replaced by Sosma, which limited detention to a maximum of 28 days for investigative purposes before suspects had to be charged or released. Khan maintained that conventional bail procedures under criminal law were insufficient when dealing with large-scale terrorism operations involving multiple suspects.

"When I was in counter-terrorism, I didn't arrest just one person. In a 24-hour period, I often arrested 40 suspects," he stated. Khan also affirmed that strict security legislation is vital for preventing escalating ethnic tensions within Malaysia's multicultural society. He cited historical ethnic conflicts in Kampung Medan and Kampung Rawa as examples.

Khan urged politicians to prioritize national security in the long term rather than pursuing short-term political gains.