A day after the death of former Al Arqam leader Ashaari Muhammad, family members have pledged to protect his business interests, in particular Global Ikhwan Sdn Bhd.

rufaqa ashaari muhammad 291106 Ashaari's eldest son Fakhrur Razi, 48, who is acting Global Ikhwan executive chairman said the family members has accepted Ashaari's death as fate and his immediate task is to look after his father’s business interest.

“First and foremost, I have to ensure the economy and corporate empire founded by my father is maintained. This is the most important thing,” he told Malaysiakini when contacted.

Fakhrur, has been acting executive chairman since Dec 2006, at the time Ashaari was too ill to perform his duties.

Global Ikhwan was founded by Ashaari after the authorities in 2006 clamped down on one of Ashaari’s companies - Rufaqa Corporation Sdn Bhd.

Business empire

Ashaari founded the Al-Arqam movement in 1968, with just 10 members. The movement grew rapidly, attracting a large number of highly-educated Muslims nationwide.

rufaqa raid 010307 tearing sticker But authorities accused Ashaari of leading a deviant group and attempted to wipe out the group with a series of arrest. Ashaari himself was detained under the Internal Security Act in 1994.

His business interest includes retail, healthcare, engineering and electronics and is believed to span across Southeast Asia, Europe, West Asia and Australia.

Ashaari, 73, or better known as Abuya among his followers passed away yesterday at the Ipoh Specialist Hospital at about 2.10pm due to lung infection.

He is survived by 38 children and 200 grandchildren.

Fakhrur said the company and its members are in a seven day mourning period and would hold a tahlil (special prayer) sessions nationwide before focussing on business activities.

He claimed that his father's business empire was formed based on love and unity among family members.

“We have pledge to continue his legacy by inculcating love and unity in the company,” he said.