KUALA LUMPUR: The Security Offences (Special Measures) Act 2012 (Sosma) is still relevant and necessary to protect the country's peace and security.
Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said Sosma was based on procedural law and used for specific security offenses detailed in the act's First Schedule.
"The government views security laws under the Home Ministry's responsibility, including Sosma, are still relevant and important to protect national security.
"The police still need the law to implement any urgent action to prevent panic among the people and address threats to the country's sovereignty and the wellbeing of the people," he said in a written reply yesterday.
Saifuddin was responding to RSN Rayer (Pakatan Harapan-Jelutong) on measures taken to review Sosma as the act had received public criticism.
He also gave his assurance that the ministry was committed to improving the law to ensure peace and order were maintained and balanced with the people's rights.
"In carrying out improvements to the law, the ministry has held internal discussions and workshops to look into the suggestions made.
"Stakeholders, including non-governmental organisations, academicians, communities and so on, will be involved in the feedback collection session on the proposed improvements."
On Feb 10, Suara Rakyat Malaysia called on the government to review Sosma, as it abandoned the presumption of innocence towards the accused.
Saifuddin had previously said Sosma was necessary in managing cases related to organised crime.