Police record statements over claims of deviant elements at event

Police are investigating a motivational programme, known as eHATI, which allegedly featured elements and practices deviating from Islamic teachings.

Shah Alam district police chief Iqbal Ibrahim said police had received a complaint on the event, which was held in Shah Alam between Sept 27 to 30 last year, from the husband of an attendee.

Noting that the report was filed in February, Iqbal said the complainant’s wife and several other witnesses were called in to have their statements recorded today.

He added that police are in the process of verifying several matters before determining whether the police or the Selangor state religious authority will take action, with representatives from the latter informed to be present when witnesses are questioned today.

“Any witnesses who would like to provide their statement can contact the Shah Alam district police headquarters or the investigating officer, Anuar Amilah, at 019 225 5597,” Iqbal said.

Yesterday, the Islamic Development Department (Jakim) confirmed that it will investigate the programme allegedly involving idolatry (syirik) and immoral rituals.

Jakim director-general Sirajuddin Suhaimee said the department will work with the Selangor state religious authority to conduct a probe to verify information obtained on the event before taking appropriate action.

He also called on all Malaysians, especially Muslims, not to be influenced by ideologies and lifestyles that contradict Islamic teachings and local cultural values.

The event incited controversy after a Facebook user took to the social media platform yesterday to claim that the final day of the programme featured certain incidents.

According to the post, the all-female programme saw a brand founder and event facilitators stripping their clothes before inviting participants to drink an unknown liquid, which allegedly caused sudden mood changes.

Besides urging attendees to dance in a provocative manner, participants were also supposedly asked to take part in a sacred bath and “rebirth” activity.

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