Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Mujahid Yusof Rawa said the unit, which will come under the Malaysian Islamic Development Department (Jakim), has been tasked with monitoring any form of writing or provocation against Islam or Prophet Muhammad on all media platforms including social media.

“I have also asked them to lodge reports immediately with the police and the Communications and Multimedia Commission if they receive any complaints about the matter,” he said in a statement today.

He said those with information or complaints can WhatsApp the unit’s hotline at 010-300 5260 or email [email protected].

“I believe the authorities have made the right move to tackle the issue,” he said. “I hope we can all work together to maintain harmony in the country.

“Our country has laws. Those who have done wrong must be appropriately punished.”

Police have so far detained three people accused of insulting Prophet Muhammad on Facebook.

Top cop Mohamad Fuzi Harun said that as of March 5, police had received 929 reports across the country and opened 16 investigation papers on cases connected to insulting Islam.

Police are also tracking down another man who allegedly insulted the prophet on Twitter.