Islamic authorities have arrested 107 people, including women and children, believed to followers of an outlawed Islamic sect.

They were detained by the Selangor state Islamic Religious Department (Jais) on Saturday for allegedly trying to revive the teachings of the once 10,000-strong Al-Arqam movement, which has been banned since 1994.

State religious affairs officer, Rahman Palil, said among those caught was a senior leader of the group and former member of Al-Arqam.

He was giving a talk at the gathering that was raided, the Star reported.

"Those detained for questioning included curious people who had gone to hear explanations about the teachings as well as newly recruited members awaiting instructions for a blessing' ceremony," Rahman said.

Rahman said Jais had been tracking the group for several months after a public tip-off.

"The organisation operating does not call itself the Al-Arqam movement, but the similarities in teachings are disturbing and Jais needed to act to prevent any confusion that may arise," he said.

The next PM

The sect was banned in August 1994 after its teachings and beliefs were found to be against Islam, and Ashaari Muhammad had claimed he was a prophet and predicted he would be the next prime minister after Dr Mahathir Mohamad, who retired in October 2003.

"It is believed Ashaari's senior followers are trying to revive the Al-Arqam teachings under another organisation," Rahman said.

Ashaari was released in 2004 after being held for 10 years under the Internal Security Act, which allows detention without trial.