Newsweek magazine is claiming today that Malaysia was "a primary, operational launchpad" for the September 11 attacks on the US. - No kidding Sherlock...

It really didn't take US intelligence sources to confirm to many that Malaysia would have been one of the most convenient places for plotting mayhem.

A modern country, with a Malay muslim majority, a latter and general history of religious extremism within perhaps one of the most tolerant and succesful multi-racial societies world wide, easy and central access, but with officials throughout the public service that can be bought off cheaply.. Modern communication infrastructure and a "hush-hush" speak/do/see no evil culture until it really threatens you personally made Malaysia an ideal centre.

The war against terrorism didn't start in Washington on September 11th. It has been ongoing in Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines to name some of the most affected South East Asian countries for years before. That the US intelligence ignored this for so long belies their name.

It is only recently that Western and countries without a significant Muslim population like Singapore and the US have became a target, as extremists go global.

More interesting will be the reaction from Malaysian government officials. Hopefully it will differ from the usual reactionary defensive stuff and focus, quite legitimately on the positive.

In the midst of being caught in the battle of minds between moderation and extremism, Malaysia continues to recover from the Asian crisis, and most signs for business this year are positive.

Elementary, my dear CIA...

See Newsweek ties terror to Malaysia -- The Washington Times

The Southeast Asian nation of Malaysia was a primary operational launchpad for the September 11 terrorist attacks on the United States, Newsweek magazine reported, citing secret FBI data.