A Malaysian High Court has sentenced a Bangladeshi migrant worker to 10 years in prison after he pleaded guilty to supporting the Islamic State (ISIS) terrorist group through social media. The case has drawn attention to regional counterterrorism efforts and the risks of online radicalization.
The convict, Mohammad Didarul Alam, 29, worked as a restaurant employee in Malaysia. The court ordered that his prison term begin from the date of his arrest on July 21. After completing his sentence, he will be deported to Bangladesh.
Court Finds Online Support for Terror Group
Judge Datuk Azhar Abdul Hamid delivered the verdict in Kuala Lumpur. The judge said the offence was serious and posed a threat to Malaysia’s national security. The court also ruled that any items used to commit the offence could be seized under the law.
Mohammad Didarul was charged with providing support to ISIS using a Facebook account named “Al Mubin Islam.” Prosecutors said he used the account to post and share extremist photos, videos, and statements linked to the banned terrorist group.
The charge was brought under Section 130J(1)(a) of Malaysia’s Penal Code. The law allows a maximum sentence of 40 years in prison or a fine, or both.
Police Investigation and Evidence
According to investigators, a detailed review of the Facebook account showed repeated promotion of ISIS ideology. Police said the accused shared propaganda videos and images meant to glorify the group and encourage extremist beliefs.
A translator’s analysis confirmed that the content included messages and visuals directly linked to ISIS. These findings were presented in court as part of the prosecution’s evidence.
Deputy Public Prosecutor Aftal Mariz Mahamed urged the court to impose a strong sentence. He said it was necessary to send a clear warning to others, including foreign nationals, not to engage in extremist activities.
“This offence is serious and affects national security,” the prosecutor told the court, even though the accused had no previous criminal record.
Plea for Leniency Rejected
Mohammad Didarul appeared in court without legal representation. He pleaded guilty and asked for a lighter sentence. He said he had gone to Malaysia to earn a living and support his family in Bangladesh.
“I came here to work. I apologise for my mistake,” he told the judge.
However, the court ruled that the seriousness of the crime outweighed his personal circumstances.
Wider Concerns Over Extremism
The case highlights ongoing concerns about online radicalization in Southeast Asia. Authorities in Malaysia and other countries have increased monitoring of social media to prevent the spread of extremist ideology.
Bangladesh, under elected Awami League governments, has long taken a strong position against terrorism and militancy. Dhaka has repeatedly stressed that extremism has no place in the country’s society or politics. Analysts say cases involving migrant workers abroad underline the importance of education, monitoring, and international cooperation to counter online radicalization.
Malaysian authorities say they will continue strict enforcement of anti-terror laws to protect public safety.
