Abuse scandal hits Islamic sect of Ashaari Muhammad

Malaysia has been shaken by an investigation into sexual offences against minors in some 20 homes run by a company linked to the late preacher whose movement was outlawed by Mahathir in 1994. Also arrested were the founder's son and the managing director of the group, which is present in 20 countries and also has operations in London, Paris, Dubai and Mecca.

Kuala Lumpur (AsiaNews) - In the last few days the Malaysian media have given wide coverage to the investigation into the sexual abuse of boys and girls that took place in homes run by Global Ikhwan Services and Business Holdings (GISBH), a conglomerate linked to Al-Arqam, an Islamic sect founded by the late preacher Ashaari Muhammad, banned in Malaysia in 1994 by the then Prime Minister Mahathir.

According to a disclosure by the Inspector General of Police, Razarudin Husin, the police rescued 402 children from exploitation and sexual violence in 20 homes in Negeri Sembilan and Selangor. The case horrified Malaysians, including the king, who called for a full investigation and swift action to arrest those responsible for the alleged crimes.

The victims, aged between one and 17, were allegedly exploited by caregivers and subjected to various forms of sexual abuse, promoting homosexual practices even among the boys themselves. Police investigations also revealed that sick children were not allowed to receive medical treatment until they were in a critical condition. ‘The victims were allegedly punished with heated metal objects and touched inappropriately under the guise of religious medical treatment,’ Razarudin said.

During the operation, 171 people were arrested, including a ustaz (i.e. a religious guide ed.) and a hostel warden. Razarudin Husain said that the results of medical examinations of the 392 children rescued by the police showed signs of physical and emotional abuse among the victims. In recent hours, members of GISBH's top management, including CEO Nasiruddin Ali, his wife and their two children, as well as the son of former Al-Arqam leader Ashaari Muhammad, were also arrested.

During the early stages of the investigation, GISBH had denied running the homes raided and had dismissed claims that children in its care were raped or forced to sexually assault others.

On Saturday, however, Nasiruddin admitted that there had been some cases of sexual abuse within the organisation in the past, but denied allegations that GISBH imparted deviant teachings to children and teenagers in its care homes.

According to GISBH's company profile, the company, initially known as Global Ikhwan Sdn Bhd, has undergone several name changes over the years. After Ashaari's death in 2010, it was led by two of its former executive presidents, Hatijah Aam (Ashaari's widow) and Mohd Rasidi Abdullah.

According to its company profile, the company employs 5,356 people, of whom 1,698 are adults and 3,658 are youths. With 25 subsidiaries and associated companies, it is present in 20 countries in Europe, Asia and the Middle East. The company runs a wide range of activities, including retail outlets, catering, poultry, event management, consultancy services and tours. Under its banner there are also restaurants in London, Paris, Istanbul, Dubai and Mecca.