Detained individuals accused of promoting ISIS ideology, forming extremist cells, and conspiring against their home country's government. 

In a sweeping counter-terrorism operation, Malaysian authorities have arrested 36 Bangladeshi nationals accused of plotting to overthrow their own government and promoting extremist ideologies linked to ISIS. The arrests were made during a week-long operation carried out from April 24 across the states of Selangor and Johor, according to a statement from Malaysia’s Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail.

Out of the 36 detainees, five have been formally charged with direct involvement in terrorist activities. Legal proceedings against them have already begun in the Shah Alam and Johor Bahru Sessions Courts. The remaining individuals face varying legal outcomes—15 are being deported, while 16 remain under further investigation, the minister added.

Minister Saifuddin revealed that intelligence reports indicate the group entered Malaysia with the intent to spread extremist views mirroring the ideology of ISIS. The group allegedly formed clandestine “cells” with the aim of indoctrinating others, raising funds for militant activities, and planning the destabilization of their home country's legitimate government.

“These individuals were not just passive sympathizers. They actively tried to create operational structures to promote extremist narratives and finance potential terror plots,” the minister emphasized.

He strongly asserted that Malaysia will not tolerate any foreign extremist group attempting to use the country as a base for operations. “This firm action reflects our zero-tolerance policy toward threats to national security,” he said.

The Home Minister commended the Malaysian Police Special Branch for conducting the operation with “professionalism and efficiency.” He added that the Ministry of Home Affairs is committed to enhancing the nation's intelligence capabilities and stepping up enforcement measures to prevent any such threats in the future.

The case has drawn attention to the growing challenge of cross-border extremism, especially involving foreign nationals who may exploit Malaysia’s relatively open borders and migrant-friendly environment. Authorities have reiterated their resolve to ensure Malaysia does not become a safe haven for extremist groups.

The arrests underscore the critical role of intelligence and international cooperation in identifying and neutralizing threats that transcend national boundaries. With investigations ongoing, further legal action could follow, depending on the findings related to the detainees’ activities and affiliations.