Malaysians are concerned about the growing influence of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) within their borders amid reports of the recent arrests of 14 nationals with alleged connections to the militant group.

But authorities are trying to assure the public they are taking appropriate measure to combat the spread of radicalism.

Twelve of the suspects were arrested on October 13th at a restaurant in Shah Alam, and the two other suspects were arrested in Damansara the next day. Three of them are believed to be recruiters for ISIS.

Inspector General of Police Khalid Abu Bakar confirmed to Khabar Southeast Asia that one of them was an employee at the Ministry of Energy, Green Technology and Water, who allegedly has connections with terrorists inside and out of Malaysia.

"We believe he was funding the militants' trips to Syria. He is also suspected of having links to three wanted militants who are hiding with Abu Sayyaf in the southern Philippines," Khalid said.

Khalid emphasised that Malaysia will continue its effort to fight militancy.

"We are on top of this, and we will not cease in our efforts to protect our citizens," he said.

He added that the government is still monitoring two other suspects.

In addition to these 14, three other men were charged Thursday (October 23rd) for supporting ISIS, AFP reported. They were arrested at Kuala Lumpur International Airport in September as they were trying to leave for the Middle East to fight alongside ISIS.

"It is sad to see Malaysians easily influenced by wrong teachings of Islam. More importantly, most of them are educated people. I don't think they are desperate for money, good lives or opportunities," said Kuala Lumpur-based cleric Muhammad Muntaqih.

"Can anyone explain this? Literature that explains that terrorism is triggered by a lack of opportunity does not fit for Malaysia."

Muntaqih believes Malaysia should expand its counterterrorism efforts.

"Militancy is no longer an internal problem in Malaysia. It crosses borders and territories of other countries. More importantly, the internet has no borders. Therefore, we need strong co-operation with other countries to tackle this growing militancy," he said.

Defence Minister Hishammuddin Hussein highlighted this point at an October 16th press conference.

"We cannot work in isolation. We need to work with our friends and our neighbours. … Close co-operation between neighbouring countries , like Indonesia, the Philippines, and Brunei is needed."

Kuala Lumpur resident Maryan Nur said the radical ideas circulating on social media are concerning.

"I have two teens. Now I have to watch them closely to ensure that they are following my guidelines," she told Khabar.

"I hope all parents are aware of this and pay close attention to our children's activities, to make sure they are on the right path of Islam and stay away from radicalism and militancy."