Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, the Philippines, Thailand and Brunei on 25 January agreed to cooperate and coordinate on exchange of information to counter radicalism and terrorism in the region.

Illustrative image (Source: kyotoreview.org)

The launch of the cooperation project took place in Nusa Dua of Bali Island, Indonesia.

Speaking at the event, Indonesian Defense Minister Ryamizard Ryacudu stressed as each nation has its own way to overcome the threat, synergy and coordination is needed to secure strategic information.

He said the move will sharpen assumption and prediction that will support authorities in making a decision to fight terrorism.

The nations will act fast and accurately so that it could minimise the number of victims, the minister was quoted by the Indonesian news agency Antara as saying.

The Southeast Asian region has been targeted by militants to build their strong hold, recruit new members and implement suicide mission. In recent years, dozens of people have been killed in IS militants’ terrorist attacks in regional countries such as Indonesia and the Philippines.

(Source: VNA)