Conceptualizing terrorist financing in the age of uncertainty

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to conceptualize the concept of terrorism, terrorism financing, the relationship between money laundering and terrorism financing and the governance of terrorism financing. Design/methodology/approach This paper adopts a doctrinal, content analysis and secondary data, of which the Anti-Money Laundering and Anti-Terrorism Financing Act 2001 and the Penal Code are the primary sources. The secondary sources for this paper include articles in academic journals, books and online databases. Findings Several methods are involved in the commission of terrorism financing such as raising, moving and using of funds. The activities relating to terrorism financing under the Penal Code are broader than such activities. Despite the adherence by Malaysia to international policies established by the Financial Action Task Force, terrorism financing has remained a threat that must be addressed by the relevant authorities. Practical implications This paper could be a useful source of information for the practitioners, academicians, policymakers and students studying this particular area of crime. Originality/value This paper contributes to a discourse on terrorism financing in the Malaysian context.