The Home Ministry has identified nine NGOs based in Kuala Lumpur and Selangor as propagating Shiite teachings with political connections.

Malay daily Berita Harian quoted the home minister’s assistant secretary Zamihan Mat Zin as saying that the nine NGOs receive support from certain political leaders, including those with ‘Datuk’ titles.

“Among the areas that have become centres for the Shiite movement are Batu Caves, Desa Melawati, Taman Permata and Taman Tasik Titiwangsa,” the paper quoted him as saying.

They include a mineral water-producing company which also allegedly promote Shiite teachings, the paper said.

“These groups have also appointed political leaders as their lawyers,” he was quoted as saying.

The paper has previously claimed, quoting sources, that a PAS leader is also involved in the Shiite movement.