KUALA LUMPUR — Malaysia could become a transit hub for terrorism as Bangladeshi militants linked to the Islamic State (IS) exploit migrant workers here to spread extremist ideology, recruit fighters, and raise funds, Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Mohd Khalid Ismail warned today.

Police intelligence revealed the group used Facebook, WhatsApp, and Telegram to radicalise Bangladeshi workers in factories, construction sites, and petrol stations. Members paid annual fees, held secret meetings, and pledged allegiance online to lead new cells. Funds were channelled to Syria and Bangladesh via mobile apps and money transfer services.

So far, 36 Bangladeshis have been arrested, and authorities identified up to 150 linked to the group. Those deeply involved face prosecution, while others will be deported.

Khalid stressed that such covert infiltration of extremist networks threatens national security and Malaysia’s global reputation, vowing zero compromise on security.