SHAH ALAM – Malaysia cannot afford hesitation in dealing with online content that fuels extremism, terrorism or violence, experts warn, as even “mild” hate speech can rapidly escalate into real-world harm if left unchecked.
They stressed that digital platforms must adopt a strict zero-tolerance approach, removing high-risk posts at the earliest signs of dehumanisation or organised mobilisation to safeguard national security.
Universiti Malaya, Computer Science and Information Technology faculty Professor Dr Ainuddin Wahid Abdul Wahab said extremist messages often relied on what he called cultivated ambiguity.
“These messages utilise coded words, memes, or inside jokes that function as a rhetorical Trojan Horse.
“They appear harmless to the general public, allowing them to bypass censorship, but simultaneously signal hate and specific calls to action to a target audience,” he said when contacted.
He highlighted that young people and socially isolated individuals were particularly vulnerable.
Ainuddin stressed that economic anxiety or emotional isolation created openings for groups that presented themselves as a “welcoming family” while quietly steering recruits towards hostility.
He said a strict zero-tolerance approach was crucial because online hate followed the “broken windows theory” where one unchecked incident encouraged more abuse.
Ainuddin further warned of the broken windows effect in online spaces.
“Allowing even ‘mild’ hate speech signals that abuse is acceptable, leading to rapid escalation. Platforms must act on early warning signs before violence is explicitly called for.
“Detecting patterns like dehumanisation or victimhood narratives early allows us to break the chain of radicalisation before it turns into a real-world security threat,” he said.
Meanwhile Universiti Sains Malaysia Cybersecurity Research Centre director Professor Dr Selvakumar Manickam elaborated on the funnel strategy used by extremists.
“Extremism rarely starts with violence.
“It begins with relatable content that builds trust, then gradually introduces radical ideas. Memes, irony and coded language are all tools to slip past moderation and normalise harmful narratives,” he said.
Selvakumar emphasised the vulnerability of certain groups.
He said young men working in gig-economy roles especially in semi-urban areas remained the most at risk due to financial pressure and emotional isolation. He said extremist communities offered instant acceptance and a false sense of identity to those feeling left behind in the post-pandemic economy.
He also raised concerns about platform responsibility.
“Algorithms prioritise engagement above all else. Polarising content generates emotional reactions, which platforms inadvertently amplify.
“Waiting for explicit threats is too late; moderation must happen at the earliest warning signs, including coded or funnelled content, to prevent radicalisation before violence occurs,” he said.
Both experts emphasised the role of the public in curbing online extremism.
“Engagement equals amplification. Do not share harmful content, even to critique it. Report, don’t share,” Ainuddin advised, encouraging Malaysians to utilise platform reporting tools and submit formal complaints through Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission or Cyber999.
Selvakumar added that until platforms fully implement safeguards and authorities take firm action, the danger of online content translating into real-world violence remains significant.
He highlighted that community vigilance, education on recognising extremist material and strict enforcement of zero-tolerance policies are essential to safeguarding national security and public safety.