Terrorism 101 Workshop
16 October 2025 | Kem Perdana Sungai Besi, Kuala Lumpur
The Southeast Asia Regional Centre for Counter-Terrorism (SEARCCT), in collaboration with the Defence Special Operation Division (DSOD), successfully conducted the 3rd Terrorism 101 Workshop on 16 October 2025 at Kem Perdana Sungai Besi, Kuala Lumpur. A total of 30 participants attended the programme.
The workshop began with opening remarks by Lt. Col. Alfarizan bin Marzukir, BOPKP, followed by a series of informative and interactive sessions led by counter-terrorism experts.
The workshop aimed to enhance participants’ understanding of terrorism—its causes, evolving trends, and the challenges faced by government institutions. It also encouraged participants to view terrorism beyond a security issue, recognising its social, political, and ideological dimensions.
The workshop featured three speakers:
ASP Mohamad Syahmi bin Mohd Pauzi, Royal Malaysia Police (RMP), shared insights on terrorist networks, radicalisation, and law enforcement challenges.
Ms. Pa Arul Malar Palaniveloo, SEARCCT, discussed Malaysia’s P/CVE strategies, focusing on youth engagement, communication, and soft approaches.
Mr. Kennimrod Sariburaja A/K James Pasaribu, SEARCCT, explored how terrorist groups exploit online platforms for propaganda, recruitment, and communication.
Participants took part in several modules covering the fundamentals of terrorism, Malaysia’s counter-terrorism framework, and the use of digital platforms by terrorist groups. A Table-Top Exercise (TTX) allowed participants to analyse simulated scenarios, promoting teamwork, critical thinking, and practical understanding of P/CVE efforts.
The workshop received highly positive feedback. Participants appreciated the relevance of the topics and the interactive approach, noting that the sessions helped broaden their perspectives on terrorism and counter-terrorism. Many suggested introducing an advanced-level module in future workshops.
Building on the success of this collaboration, SEARCCT plans to expand similar workshops to other military and enforcement agencies to strengthen inter-agency cooperation and promote a whole-of-government approach to counter-terrorism.
The workshop concluded with closing remarks by Ambassador Kennedy Mayong Onon, Deputy Director General II of SEARCCT.