Singapore, Oct 22: Striking a decisive blow against terror cells in Southeast Asia will be instrumental in restoring economic vibrancy back to the region, said Singapore Deputy Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, today. He pointed out the recent bomb attack in Bali as being a tragic reminder of Southeast Asia’s frontline position in the worldwide war against terrorism. With the arrests of alleged militants of the Jemaah Islamiyah (II) group, reported to have links with Osama Bin Laden’s Al Qaeda network, Lee said Southeast Asia is taking the terror threats seriously. Knowing the objectives of the terrorists, Lee was confident that the Southeast Asian governments would act. He reminded that these were not innocent political dissidents exercising their democratic rights.


Instead they were ruthless fanatics, ready to kill the innocent for creating civil strife and animosity between communities and countries, undermine the confidence of Southeast Asian economies and their legitimate governments and weakening the basis of the states.


Singapore and its neighbour Malaysia have detained dozens of Islamic militants believed to be part of the JI group, over the past year. The group is accused of planning attacks on Western targets, overthrowing governments and establishing a regional Islamic state.



Bureau Report