Isis targets children through online games, says Ayob Khan

Counter-terrorism expert Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay warned that children as young as 12 are being recruited by extremist groups through online games, despite the Islamic State's waning influence. Former Deputy Inspector-General of Police explained that extremists would first befriend children on platforms like Roblox, then invite them to private groups where they are introduced to the idea of carrying out terrorist attacks.

Malaysia Gazette reported that police recently arrested three children, aged 12, 14, and 15, who were recruited through such games before being trained to commit terrorist acts.

Ayob cited a 2024 incident where a man, believed to be around 20 or 21 years old, attacked a police station with a parang and seized a firearm, claiming he was a martyr and would die if killed. This illustrates how extremists often disregard mainstream Islamic teachings and reinterpret the Quran and Hadith to justify violence. He emphasized that Muslims should adhere to moderate Islamic principles that reject such actions.

The expert urged for tougher preventive laws to counter these threats, suggesting education and parental supervision as crucial tools to prevent children from being swayed by extremist ideologies. He stressed the importance of using established Islamic teachings, which promote moderation and eschew violence. Ayob also pointed out that extremist beliefs brought from abroad remain a persistent threat, citing past activities by the Jemaah Islamiah militant group in Malaysia.

He called for stricter preventive measures and rehabilitation programs for those involved in extremist activities.