Why did Malaysians join IS return disillusioned?

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Malaysians Disillusioned by Menial Duties Upon Joining IS

Malaysians who joined the Islamic State (IS) in Syria and Iraq returned home disillusioned primarily because their expected roles as combatants on the battlefield were replaced with menial tasks such as cleaning toilets and sweeping rubbish. These recruits expressed regret upon witnessing the stark contrast between their imagined reality of IS-held territories and the actual situation they encountered. The disillusionment stemmed from the realization that their contributions were far removed from the fighting they had anticipated.
Unfulfilled Combat Expectations

Upon arrival in IS-controlled areas, Malaysian recruits found themselves assigned duties unrelated to warfare. Instead of engaging in combat, they were tasked with essential but non-combative chores. This discrepancy between the envisioned role of a warrior and the reality of performing menial labour led to significant disappointment and regret among these individuals, undermining the very purpose for which they had travelled.
Vain Pursuit of Martyrdom

The pursuit of martyrdom also proved to be a false hope for some. Reports indicate that several Malaysians who perished in Iraq and Syria were not active participants in battles. Instead, some died as casualties of explosions, having actively sought to be martyrs without direct involvement in combat. This outcome represented a tragic and ultimately futile end for those who had aspired to die for the cause.
Successful Rehabilitation Efforts

The Malaysian government has implemented a comprehensive rehabilitation program for IS returnees, achieving a high success rate. Approximately 97 percent of individuals who returned after joining IS have undergone deradicalisation. This extensive rehabilitation effort has been a collaborative undertaking, involving various agencies including the police, the prison department, the Home Ministry, the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (Jakim), and several non-governmental organisations, aiming to reintegrate these individuals into society.
Legal Actions Against Suspected Individuals

In parallel with rehabilitation, the Malaysian authorities have taken legal action against individuals suspected of IS links. To date, 160 people have been apprehended. Legal proceedings have been initiated under stringent laws such as the Security Offences (Special Measures) Act, the Prevention of Crime Act, and the Prevention of Terrorism Act, underscoring the government's commitment to addressing terrorism-related activities.

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Why did Malaysians join IS return disillusioned?

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