Malaysia said Wednesday it will immediately release 125 suspects who are being held under a harsh security law that is scheduled for repeal.

Prime Minister Najib Rezak announced the move in parliament, where he said the release is only the beginning of his government's moves to enhance a democratic way of life.

The government on Monday introduced legislation to repeal the Restricted Resident Act, a colonial era law that allows police to banish individuals to remote regions, usually without formal charges or a trial.

Most of those detained under the law are suspected members of criminal gangs, militant groups and illegal gambling networks.

Mr. Najib also introduced legislation Monday to scrap a 1959 law allowing non-Malaysians to be banished from the country.

Repeal of the nation's notorious Internal Security Act – under which thousands of people including opposition critics have been held without trial – is expected early next year.

Malaysia's opposition parties have been gaining support ahead of elections expected next year by demanding improved human rights guarantees and greater transparency in government.

Tens of thousands of people turned out for a rally demanding electoral reforms in Kuala Lumpur in July. The government said Monday it will create a bipartisan parliamentary panel to study possible reforms.