programme in the Straits of Malacca involving Malaysia, Singapore and Indonesia in
2005 has contributed to improved security in the Straits of Malacca.
Illegal supply and distribution of drugs is another non-military challenge faced by the
region. The Golden Triangle which is one of the world’s largest narcotics producers is
located in this region. The drugs menace is worsening as a result of synthetic drugs
which are easier and cheaper to produce in addition to natural drugs which continue to
be distributed illegally in the market. The active involvement of insurgents in the drugs
trade requires the full attention of countries in the region. Drugs smuggling has been
identified as one of the main revenue sources for insurgents to fund their insurgencies.
Internal Security
Malaysia’s overall internal security situation is stable and manageable. Since the armed
threat of the Malayan Communist Party ended with the Haadyai Peace Accord in 1989
there has been no serious internal security threat in Malaysia. However, Malaysia
continues to face the possibility of threats which could break out at anytime and if not
monitored and curbed at an early stage, it has the potential of jeopardising national
security and prosperity.
The current political climate in Malaysia is seeing a widening of the racial gap. The
unsettled political situation could threaten the social stability and community relation in
Malaysia. In their desire to expand their influence there are leaders who took advantage
of sensitive issues to a level that could affect public safety and harmony.
The situation worsens when non-governmental organisations also took advantage of the
situation to make unreasonable demands which could also affect national security and
peace.
The large influx of legal and illegal foreign immigrants to the country also has negative
implications to Malaysia’s internal security. The Immigrations department’s records
MALAYSIA’S NATIONAL DEFENCE POLICY
Page 11