An Analysis of The Factors of Malaysian Women's Involvement in The Movement of Religious Extremism

Abstract

The issue of religious violence is indeed the biggest problem that Muslims must face to this date. It has damaged the image of Islam in the eyes of the world. The development of this movement is driven by various factors whether internal or external. In addition, it also involves women as combatants as well as victims of war. In this regard, this study will discuss the factors of Malaysian women's involvement in the movement of religious extremism, in particular involving Malaysian women's participation in the ISIS movement in Syria and Iraq. Usually, it involves various factors whether it is internal or external that causes them to be easily influenced by this movement. In order to achieve these objectives, this qualitative study was conducted through library approach and interviews with the deradicalization experts, case witnesses and police authorities. The data collected were analysed inductively to formulate the findings. The findings show that Malaysian women's involvement in religious extremism is driven by a variety of factors, including ignorance and extreme bigotry, but are tricked by sweet promises such as heavenly reward and marriage with the male fighter. They are easily exploited and manipulated by the male fighters. Therefore, women's involvement in extremist groups should be constrained accordingly.