Selangor Friday sermon condemns GISBH's alleged child abuse

Today's Friday sermon in Selangor has strongly condemned the serious issue of child abuse, including sexual crimes, linked to the Global Ikhwan Services and Business Holdings (GISBH) group.

The khateeb (preacher) stated that, in addition to criminal activities, the group is also suspected of practising teachings that contradict Islamic beliefs at several premises under its control.

“Reports mention several serious offences suspected of being committed by GISBH, such as abuse of students, exploitation of children, forced labour, and sexual crimes at several orphanages, including Islamic religious schools under GISBH.

“Why is this happening? What is the real purpose?

“All these criminal acts and doctrinal errors tarnish the good name and sanctity of Islam. It can even lead to the deviation of one’s faith and the invalidation of a Muslim’s syahadah (declaration of faith) if they commit these doctrinal errors.

“What is most saddening is that newspaper reports have stated that most of the orphanages under GISBH involved in the investigation have been operating for a long time in several states including Selangor,” according to the sermon text titled “Why is GISBH doing this to children?” prepared by the Selangor Islamic Religious Department (Jais).

On Sept 11, the police, through Operation Global, rescued 402 children and teenagers from 20 orphanages linked to GISBH in Selangor and Negeri Sembilan, who were suspected of being victims of labour and sexual exploitation.

The raid revealed cases of neglect and abuse, leading to the arrest of several individuals linked to GISBH.

In addition, the group is also accused of reviving the teachings of the al-Arqam organisation, which was declared deviant in 1994.

READ MORE: KINIGUIDE | From al-Arqam to GISBH

Yesterday, Jais received full cooperation from the police to investigate 612 individuals linked to the group, and all of them are being investigated under the Selangor Syariah Criminal Enactment 1995.

Children’s right

The khateeb also reminded the public, especially Muslims, that children are a trust from Allah to be protected and cared for.

According to the sermon text, parents and guardians, including charitable homes, are responsible for shaping a good future for children.

"Moreover, they are responsible for creating a good life and a safe environment for children at all times," the text states.

The Friday pulpit also advised that the priority of caring for and educating children is directly related to the purpose of preserving the well-being of their religion, life, intellect, property, and lineage.

"This understanding of Islamic teachings regarding maqasid (the purpose of) syariah and the rights of children should be understood by all parties, including GISBH.

“Children have the right to be treated justly and well. They also have the right to live and reside in a safe and secure environment and far from disgusting criminal acts such as rape, sodomy, abuse, forced marriage and divorce, forced labour, separation of children from parents and even being told to claim to be orphans.

"If the investigation truly leads to the criminal offences as mentioned, it is very inappropriate," the text stated.

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