Sabah, a region in Malaysia, has

witnessed challenges related to

violent extremism over the years.
This paper delves into the
landscape of violent extremism
in Sabah, highlighting its unique
characteristics and drivers.

Countering
Violent
Extremism (CVE)
in Sabah:
Harnessing
Narrative and
Storytelling
Alfonso Min, PhD
Abstract:

Sabah, a region in Malaysia, has witnessed challenges related to violent extremism over the years. This
paper delves into the landscape of violent extremism in Sabah, highlighting its unique characteristics
and drivers. Moreover, it examines the vital role of narrative and storytelling in countering this menace.
By analysing the local context, exploring the power of narratives, and showcasing successful initiatives,
this paper emphasizes the importance of narratives in building resilience against extremism within
Sabah's diverse communities.

I. Introduction

Violent extremism, characterized by radical ideologies leading to violence and terrorism, is a global
concern, and Sabah has not been immune to its impact. Sabah's distinct cultural and religious diversity,
combined with socio-economic disparities, has made it susceptible to extremist influences. This paper
aims to provide an in-depth analysis of violent extremism in Sabah and explore how narrative and
storytelling can be harnessed to counter it effectively.

II. Understanding Violent Extremism in Sabah

1. The Local Context:

Sabah, located in East Malaysia, is renowned for its remarkable cultural and religious diversity,
making it a unique and vibrant region within the country. This diversity is primarily attributed to
its historical and geographical factors. Sabah shares borders with Indonesia and the Philippines,
which has led to centuries of interaction and migration across these regions.

Cultural Diversity:

1. Indigenous Peoples: Sabah is home to a rich tapestry of indigenous groups, each with its own
distinct languages, traditions, and belief systems. Notable indigenous groups include the
Kadazandusun, Murut, Bajau, and many others. These diverse ethnic communities contribute
to the cultural mosaic of the region.

2. Immigrant Communities: Over the years, Sabah has seen waves of migration, leading to the
presence of immigrant communities, such as the Chinese, Indians, and various Filipino ethnic
groups. This diversity has further enriched the cultural fabric of the region.
Religious Diversity:

1. Islam: Islam is the predominant religion in Sabah, with a significant majority of the population
adhering to Sunni Islam. Sabah's Islamic culture is influenced by its proximity to Indonesia and
the Philippines.

2. Christianity: Christianity is the second-largest religion in Sabah, with various denominations,

including Catholicism, Protestantism, and indigenous Christian practices. The Kadazandusun
community is predominantly Christian.

3. Indigenous Belief Systems: Many indigenous communities in Sabah continue to practice their
traditional belief systems, which are often animistic and syncretic, blending elements of
indigenous spirituality with other religions.

Socio-Economic Disparities and Their Role in Extremism

Socio-economic disparities play a significant role in the context of extremism in Sabah. These
disparities are linked to several key factors:

1. Poverty: Sabah faces challenges related to poverty, with certain rural and marginalized
communities experiencing limited access to basic services, education, and economic
opportunities. Poverty can make individuals more susceptible to extremist recruitment, as
they may be lured by promises of economic improvement (UNDP, 2005).

2. Marginalization: Certain indigenous communities in Sabah have historically faced

marginalization in terms of land rights and access to resources. This marginalization can create
grievances that extremists may exploit (Matthews, 2018).

3. Education: Disparities in educational opportunities can contribute to susceptibility to

extremist narratives. Limited access to quality education may hinder critical thinking and
expose individuals to extremist propaganda (Ministry of Education, 2019).

The Presence of Extremist Groups and Their Recruitment Strategies

Sabah has witnessed the presence of extremist groups, including both domestic and transnational
actors. These groups employ various recruitment strategies to attract vulnerable individuals:

1. Transnational Influence: Sabah's proximity to the Southern Philippines, known for its history
of insurgency and extremist movements, exposes the region to transnational influences.
Extremist groups from the Philippines, such as Abu Sayyaf, have sought refuge and recruits in
Sabah (Jones, 2005).
2. Online Radicalization: Extremist groups leverage online platforms and social media to
disseminate propaganda, recruit followers, and provide ideological training. Online
radicalization poses a particular challenge, as it allows extremists to reach a wide audience
(Pusat Pemantauan Media Malaysia, 2019).

3. Local Grievances: Extremist recruiters often exploit local grievances related to socio-economic
disparities, marginalization, and perceived injustices. They may present extremist ideologies
as solutions to these problems (Chandra et al., 2019).

In conclusion, Sabah's cultural and religious diversity, coupled with socio-economic disparities and
the presence of extremist groups, creates a complex environment in which violent extremism can
thrive. Understanding these local dynamics is crucial for developing effective strategies that
harness the power of narrative and storytelling to counter extremism in Sabah.

2. Drivers of Extremism:

1. Economic Marginalization:

Economic marginalization is a significant driver of extremism in Sabah, particularly among

marginalized and impoverished communities. High levels of poverty, limited access to basic
services, and disparities in economic opportunities contribute to feelings of disenfranchisement,
frustration, and vulnerability to extremist recruitment (UNDP, 2019).

2. Ethno-Religious Tensions:

Sabah's diverse population encompasses various ethnicities and religions, which can sometimes
lead to ethno-religious tensions. These tensions may be exploited by extremist groups to fuel
division and recruit individuals who feel marginalized or threatened by other communities. The
presence of different religious and cultural practices can sometimes lead to misunderstandings
and conflicts (Fernandez, 2003).

3. Political Grievances:

Political grievances and dissatisfaction with governance are drivers of extremism in Sabah.
Historically, there have been disputes over political representation, resource allocation, and
autonomy. These grievances can be manipulated by extremist groups to garner support for their
agendas (Gomez et al,.2004).
 4. Transnational Influences:

Sabah's proximity to regions with a history of insurgency and extremist movements, such as the
Southern Philippines, exposes it to transnational influences. Extremist groups from neighbouring
countries may seek refuge in Sabah and attempt to recruit members from local communities,
leveraging the region's porous borders (Jones, 2016).

These drivers of extremism in Sabah are interconnected, creating a complex environment that
requires multifaceted approaches to address the root causes of radicalization and promote peace
and social cohesion within the region. Narrative and storytelling can play a crucial role in
addressing these drivers by fostering understanding, empathy, and resilience among diverse
communities in Sabah.

3. Radicalization Pathways:

1. Online Radicalization and Recruitment:

Online radicalization has emerged as a prominent pathway to extremism in Sabah, as it allows

extremist ideologies to be disseminated widely and quickly. The internet provides a platform for
extremist groups to recruit individuals, spread propaganda, and facilitate communication with like-
minded individuals. Vulnerable individuals, especially youth, may be drawn to extremist content
online, leading to their radicalization (Pusat Pemantauan Media Malaysia, 2019).

2. The Role of Charismatic Leaders:

Charismatic leaders often play a crucial role in radicalization processes in Sabah. These leaders possess
persuasive abilities and can influence susceptible individuals to adopt extremist ideologies. Their
magnetic appeal and ability to articulate extremist narratives can be particularly potent in attracting
followers and facilitating recruitment (Sike, 2008).

3. The Appeal of Extremist Narratives:

Extremist narratives are designed to resonate with specific grievances and aspirations of individuals.
They may offer simplistic solutions to complex problems, promising a sense of purpose and belonging.
These narratives often exploit local and global issues, framing them in a way that aligns with extremist
ideologies. The appeal of these narratives can draw individuals into extremist circles (Horgan, 2008).

Understanding these radicalization pathways is crucial for developing effective counter-extremism

strategies in Sabah. Narrative and storytelling interventions can counter extremist narratives, provide
alternative role models to charismatic leaders, and raise awareness about the dangers of online
radicalization, ultimately contributing to preventing the radicalization of individuals in the region.
III. The Power of Narrative and Storytelling

1. Cultural Significance of Storytelling:

a. The Historical Role of Storytelling in Sabah's Communities:

Storytelling has a deep and historical significance in the diverse communities of Sabah. Indigenous
peoples, such as the Kadazandusun, Murut, and Bajau, have a rich tradition of oral storytelling, which
has been passed down through generations. These stories encompass myths, legends, folktales, and
historical narratives that serve as repositories of cultural knowledge, values, and identity (Chin, 2011).

b. How Narratives Are Woven into the Fabric of Daily Life:

In Sabah, storytelling is not confined to formal settings but is an integral part of daily life. It occurs
informally within families, communities, and during cultural celebrations. Storytelling sessions often
take place around the hearth, during harvest festivals, or as part of rituals and ceremonies. These
narratives strengthen social bonds, transmit cultural values, and provide a sense of belonging (Kaur,
2015).

The informal transmission of narratives within communities fosters a sense of collective identity and
shared history. It reinforces cultural norms, ethics, and traditions, making storytelling a fundamental
aspect of cultural preservation and continuity in Sabah.

The cultural significance of storytelling in Sabah underscores its potential as a powerful tool for
countering violent extremism. By integrating narratives that promote peace, tolerance, and
understanding into the existing storytelling traditions, Sabah can harness this rich cultural heritage to
build resilience against extremist ideologies and foster unity among its diverse communities.

c. The Role of Narrative in Extremism:

1. How Extremist Groups Exploit Local Narratives and Grievances:

Extremist groups often strategically exploit local narratives and grievances to advance their radical
agendas. They identify and manipulate pre-existing grievances within communities, using them as
leverage for recruitment and radicalization. These local narratives and grievances can include
perceived socio-economic injustices, political marginalization, ethnic or religious tensions, and
historical conflicts (Moghadam, 2005).

By aligning their narratives with the grievances of the targeted population, extremist groups can create
a sense of shared victimhood and injustice, making their ideology more appealing to potential recruits
who feel marginalized or aggrieved.
 2. The Power of Narratives in Creating a Sense of Belonging and Identity:

Extremist narratives are designed to provide individuals with a sense of belonging, purpose, and
identity. These narratives often promise a utopian vision or a return to a perceived golden age,
appealing to individuals who may feel disconnected from their communities or societies. Through
storytelling, extremists craft a narrative that positions recruits as part of an exclusive, heroic, or chosen
group destined to bring about radical change (Kruglanski et al.,2009).

The power of these narratives lies in their ability to provide individuals with a clear and compelling
identity that supersedes their previous affiliations, whether familial, community-based, or national.

Extremist narratives exploit local grievances to create a potent narrative framework that resonates
with individuals who feel marginalized or disenchanted. Understanding the role of narrative in
extremism is crucial for developing counter-narratives that offer alternative narratives of belonging,
identity, and purpose, ultimately countering the appeal of extremist ideologies and preventing
radicalization.

3. Functions of Narrative and Storytelling:

a. Building Empathy and Understanding among Diverse Communities:

Narratives and storytelling serve as powerful tools for building empathy and fostering understanding
among diverse communities. They enable individuals from different backgrounds to step into the shoes
of others, experiencing their struggles, hopes, and challenges. Through narratives, people can develop
a deeper appreciation for the perspectives and experiences of individuals from different ethnic,
religious, or cultural backgrounds (Green et al., 2000)

b. Countering Stereotypes and Prejudices:

Narratives and storytelling have the capacity to challenge and counteract stereotypes and prejudices.
By presenting diverse and nuanced characters and scenarios, narratives encourage audiences to
question and reevaluate their preconceived notions. They humanize individuals who might otherwise
be reduced to stereotypes, promoting a more accurate and empathetic understanding of different
groups (Allport, 1954).

4. Inspiring Resilience and Resistance:

Narratives often feature stories of individuals who have overcome adversity, demonstrating resilience
and resistance in the face of challenges. These stories inspire hope and motivation, showing that
individuals and communities can withstand extremist pressures and remain resilient. They serve as a
source of strength for those seeking alternatives to extremist ideologies (Rutter, 2006).
 5. Promoting Critical Thinking and Deconstructing Extremist Ideologies:

Narratives and storytelling can promote critical thinking by presenting complex issues and dilemmas
in nuanced ways. They engage audiences in reflective and analytical processes, encouraging them to
question extremist propaganda and ideologies. By providing alternative perspectives and narratives,
storytelling can deconstruct the simplistic and misleading narratives put forth by extremist groups
(Bandura, 2002).

Narrative and storytelling initiatives that harness these functions play a vital role in countering violent
extremism. By offering narratives that build empathy, challenge stereotypes, inspire resilience, and
promote critical thinking, they contribute to a more informed, compassionate, and resilient society,
less susceptible to the allure of extremist ideologies.

IV. Current Narrative Initiatives in Sabah

1. Local Success Stories:

a. Pantun Sayang: A Narrative Project for Peace:

Initiative Description: Pantun Sayang is a community-driven narrative project in Sabah that seeks to
promote peace, understanding, and resilience through storytelling. It involves local poets, writers, and
community leaders who use the traditional Malay art of pantun (a form of poetry) to convey messages
of unity, tolerance, and solidarity. Pantun Sayang brings together people from diverse backgrounds to
share their stories and create poetry that celebrates Sabah's cultural richness.

Impact: This initiative has inspired creativity and unity within communities, fostering a sense of shared
identity. Through poetry and storytelling, Pantun Sayang has helped individuals appreciate the cultural
diversity of Sabah and strengthen their resistance to extremist narratives.

b. Siti's Journey: A Resilience Story:

Initiative Description: Siti, a survivor of an extremist attack in Sabah, has become an inspirational figure
in her community. Her story is shared through community-led initiatives, including storytelling sessions
and awareness campaigns. Siti's journey from victim to survivor is a testament to the resilience of
individuals affected by extremism, and it serves as a powerful narrative of hope and healing.

Impact: Siti's story has resonated deeply with local communities, motivating them to stand together
against extremism. It highlights the importance of resilience and community support in countering the
impact of extremist violence.
 c. Sabah Youth for Peace (SYP):

Initiative Description: Sabah Youth for Peace is a grassroots movement initiated by young leaders in
Sabah. It harnesses the power of storytelling and youth engagement to counter extremist narratives.
SYP conducts workshops, seminars, and community dialogues that encourage young people to share
their narratives and perspectives on peace and tolerance. These events feature personal stories,
poetry, and art that challenge extremist ideologies.

Impact: Sabah Youth for Peace has empowered young Sabahans to become advocates for peace and
tolerance. By amplifying the voices of youth and countering extremist narratives with positive and
constructive messages, this initiative contributes to building a resilient and united community.

These local success stories in Sabah exemplify the power of narrative and storytelling initiatives in
countering extremism. They showcase the capacity of communities to come together, share their
stories, and promote peace, tolerance, and resilience. Through these efforts, Sabahans are actively
challenging extremist narratives and building a brighter future for their region.

2. Community Engagement:

a. The Involvement of Local Leaders, Educators, and Religious Figures in CVE

Initiatives:

Community engagement in CVE initiatives is greatly facilitated by the active involvement of local
leaders, educators, and religious figures. These influential figures play critical roles in shaping
community perspectives and behaviours. Here's how they contribute:

• Local Leaders: Elected officials, community elders, and tribal leaders often hold
significant sway within their communities. Their endorsement of CVE initiatives lends
credibility and encourages community participation. They can also help identify and
address local grievances that may be exploited by extremist groups (UNDP, 2018).

• Educators: Schools and educational institutions are crucial settings for CVE efforts.
Educators can incorporate counter-extremism themes into curricula, promoting
critical thinking and resilience among students. They also play a vital role in detecting
early signs of radicalization and providing appropriate interventions (UNESCO, 2016).

• Religious Figures: In regions with strong religious identities like Sabah, religious
leaders are influential in shaping beliefs and values. Engaging religious figures in CVE
allows for the dissemination of moderate and tolerant interpretations of faith,
countering extremist ideologies (United Nations Office of Counterterrorism, 2017).
 2. The Role of Youth Engagement and Peer-to-Peer Narratives:

Youth engagement is pivotal in CVE efforts, as young people often form a significant portion of the
population and are susceptible to extremist narratives. The following aspects are crucial in this context:

• Youth-Led Initiatives: Empowering youth to lead CVE initiatives can be highly

effective. Youth-led organizations and projects allow young people to develop and
disseminate counter-narratives tailored to their peers, making them more relatable
and engaging (Hedayah, Institute for Counterterrorism and Counter-Terrorism
Executive Directorate, 2019).

• Peer-to-Peer Narratives: Peer-to-peer narratives resonate well with young audiences.

These narratives, often shared through social media and community events, can
highlight the stories of former extremists who have disengaged from radical groups,
demonstrating that there is an alternative path to violence (Institute for Strategic
Dialogue, 2017).

• Youth Outreach Programs: Creating safe spaces and forums for youth to discuss
grievances, share experiences, and express their concerns can be instrumental in
preventing radicalization. These programs offer a platform for constructive dialogue
and support networks (UNICEF, 2018).

Engaging communities, especially through the active involvement of local leaders, educators, religious
figures, and youth, strengthens the fabric of society and builds resilience against extremist ideologies.
It fosters an environment where individuals are encouraged to critically assess extremist narratives
and promote peaceful alternatives.

3. Media and Entertainment:

a. Utilizing Media Platforms and Popular Culture to Disseminate Counter-

Narratives:

Media, including television, radio, social media, and film, is a powerful tool for disseminating counter-
narratives that challenge extremist ideologies. Here's how media can be harnessed for CVE:

• Online Campaigns: Social media platforms provide a vast reach for counter-extremism
messaging. Governments, NGOs, and community organizations can create and share
content that debunks extremist narratives, showcases alternative paths, and
promotes tolerance and diversity (Counter Extremism Project, 2018).
 • Documentary and Film: Documentaries and films can offer in-depth insights into the
lives of individuals affected by extremism, including survivors, defectors, and families.
These narratives humanize the consequences of radicalization and can deter
individuals from pursuing extremist paths (Rand Corporation, 2019).

• Music and Art: Music, art, and other forms of creative expression can convey powerful
messages of peace, unity, and resistance to extremism. Artists can use their platforms
to inspire positive change and challenge extremist narratives (Abu Dhabi Music & Arts
Foundation, 2017).

4. The Impact of Positive Portrayals of Diversity in Media:

Positive portrayals of diversity in media can significantly contribute to CVE efforts by promoting
inclusivity, tolerance, and the celebration of differences. Here's why this is crucial:

• Countering Stereotypes: Media that portrays diverse characters in nuanced and

positive ways challenges stereotypes and prejudices. It provides audiences with a
more accurate representation of the complexity of human experiences (Centre for the
Study of Hate and Extremism, 2019).

• Promoting Social Cohesion: Positive portrayals of diversity in media send a message

that diversity is valued and contributes to social cohesion. When individuals see
themselves and their communities represented positively, they are more likely to feel
a sense of belonging (Mastro, 2009).

• Inspiring Empathy and Understanding: Stories that highlight the experiences of

individuals from different backgrounds can foster empathy and understanding among
audiences. When people can relate to the characters and narratives they encounter in
media, they are more likely to reject extremist narratives that promote hatred and
division (Bohm et al., 2011).

Utilizing media and entertainment to disseminate counter-narratives and promote diversity not only
contributes to CVE efforts but also helps shape a more inclusive and tolerant society. It reinforces the
message that extremism and intolerance have no place in a world that values diversity and celebrates
the strength of different cultures and perspectives.
V. Challenges and Future Directions

1. Multi-Stakeholder Collaboration at Local, National, and International Levels:

a. Addressing Linguistic and Cultural Diversity:

One of the primary challenges in implementing narrative-based CVE initiatives is the diverse linguistic
and cultural landscape of the targeted communities. Sabah, for example, is home to numerous ethnic
groups and languages, each with its unique cultural nuances. This diversity presents the following
challenges:

• Translation and Localization: Adapting counter-narratives to multiple languages and

cultures requires resources and expertise. Ensuring that messages are culturally
sensitive and contextually relevant can be complex (UNDP, 2017).

• Relevance and Engagement: Counter-narratives must resonate with local

communities to be effective. A narrative that is compelling in one cultural context may
not have the same impact in another, necessitating careful tailoring of messages
(Institute for Strategic Dialogue, 2020).

b. Monitoring Online Extremist Content:

Online spaces are key battlegrounds for extremist narratives, making monitoring and countering online
extremist content a significant challenge. Extremist groups use social media, encrypted messaging
apps, and online forums to spread their messages (Counter Extremism Project, 2018). Challenges in
this regard include:

• Volume and Rapid Dissemination: The sheer volume of online content and the speed
at which it is disseminated make it challenging to detect and respond to extremist
narratives in a timely manner (European Commission (2020).

• Evolution of Tactics: Extremists constantly adapt their online tactics, using encryption
and adopting new platforms to avoid detection. Staying ahead of these evolving
strategies is a continuous challenge.

c. Ensuring Long-Term Sustainability of Narrative Initiatives:

Sustainability is a critical concern for narrative-based CVE efforts (Institute for Economics and Peace,
2020). Maintaining the impact and relevance of initiatives over the long term can be challenging due
to various factors:
 • Resource Constraints: Funding for CVE initiatives may be limited or subject to
fluctuations, affecting the sustainability of programs and outreach efforts (Institute for
Economics and Peace, 2020).

• Changing Narratives: Extremist narratives evolve, and so must counter-narratives.

Ensuring that counter-narratives remain current and responsive to shifting extremist
tactics requires ongoing effort and resources (Combating Terrorism Centre at West
Point, 2017).

Addressing these challenges in narrative-based CVE requires a multidimensional approach, including

collaboration with local communities, technology companies, linguistic experts, and ongoing
investment in research and development to create narratives that are effective, culturally sensitive,
and sustainable in the long run.

2. Collaboration and Partnerships:

Countering violent extremism (CVE) is a complex and multifaceted challenge that demands
collaboration and partnerships at multiple levels. Here's a comprehensive overview of the need for
such collaboration and the importance of leveraging expertise from NGOs, government agencies, and
academia:

1. Multi-Stakeholder Collaboration at Local, National, and International Levels:

• Local Collaboration:

At the local level, effective CVE initiatives often involve collaboration among various stakeholders,
including community leaders, religious figures, educators, youth organizations, and civil society groups.
Local engagement is crucial for understanding and addressing community-specific grievances and
vulnerabilities to extremism (UNDP, 2019).

• National Collaboration:

Collaboration at the national level is essential for the coordination and implementation of CVE policies
and programs. This includes cooperation between government agencies, law enforcement,
intelligence agencies, and civil society organizations. National strategies should aim to address root
causes, promote social cohesion, and engage a wide range of actors (United Nations Office of
Counterterrorism, 2018).
 • International Collaboration:

Extremism often transcends borders, necessitating international cooperation in CVE efforts. Countries
must share intelligence, best practices, and strategies for countering the global threat of extremism.
International organizations, such as the United Nations, play a vital role in facilitating this collaboration
(United Nations, 2019).

2. Leveraging Expertise from NGOs, Government Agencies, and Academia:

• NGOs (Non-Governmental Organizations):

NGOs often have a deep understanding of local communities and can implement grassroots CVE
programs effectively. They can provide valuable insights into the drivers of extremism and work closely
with communities to develop counter-narratives and resilience-building initiatives (Hedayah, Institute
for Counterterrorism and Counter-Terrorism Executive Directorate, 2019).

• Government Agencies:

Government agencies have the resources and authority to develop and implement national CVE
strategies. They can coordinate efforts, provide funding, and support law enforcement in disrupting
extremist activities. Government partnerships with civil society and academia enhance the
effectiveness of CVE programs (The White House, 2011).

• Academia:

Academic institutions contribute by conducting research on extremism, radicalization, and the impact
of CVE programs. They provide evidence-based recommendations for policy development and
program design. Collaboration between academia and government agencies ensures that CVE efforts
are informed by the latest research (National Counterterrorism Centre, 2021).

Collaboration and partnerships among these stakeholders are essential for holistic and sustainable CVE
efforts. By bringing together diverse expertise, resources, and perspectives, multi-stakeholder
collaboration strengthens the capacity to prevent radicalization, promote community resilience, and
counter the narratives that drive extremism.

VI. Conclusion

Countering violent extremism in Sabah requires a multifaceted approach that addresses the unique
socio-cultural and economic factors that contribute to radicalization. Narrative and storytelling have
emerged as powerful tools in promoting tolerance, understanding, and resilience within Sabah's
diverse communities. By harnessing the power of narratives and building upon successful initiatives,
Sabah can strengthen its defences against extremism and work towards a more peaceful and inclusive
future. The challenge ahead is to continue investing in these narrative-based strategies and to foster a
sense of unity and shared identity that transcends the divisive narratives of violent extremism.
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