MALAYSIAN MPs backed a draconian new “anti-terrorism” law yesterday that will allow authorities to detain suspects without trial indefinitely — with no court challenges permitted.

The Prevention of Terrorism Bill was passed by 79 votes to 60 in the early hours of the morning following a lengthy debate.

It followed Sunday’s dramatic arrest of 17 people accused of planning terror attacks in Kuala Lumpur, supposedly in imitation of the Islamic State (Isis) organisation.

Home Minister Zahid Hamidi said the growth of extremist terror was “a real threat and prevention measures are needed.”

But Human Rights Watch slammed “a giant step backwards for human rights” which “reopened Pandora’s Box for politically motivated, abusive state actions,” noting its similarity to the repressive Internal Security Act which was revoked by the government in 2012.

The Bill awaits approval from Malaysia’s upper house and the king, but these are considered formalities.