JAKIM is tracking a viral video linked to Shia practices, collaborating with police and MCMC to prevent its wider spread and recruitment efforts.
BANGI: The Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM) is monitoring the circulation of a viral video allegedly linked to Shia practices on social media.
Director-general Datuk Dr Sirajuddin Suhaimee said the department is working closely with the Royal Malaysia Police and the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission on the matter.
He said JAKIM is aware the video allegedly occurred within certain groups or at specific premises.
The department has also received information that its circulation is currently limited to members only.
“What we are trying to prevent is wider dissemination, attempts to recruit new members or spread its influence,” Sirajuddin told reporters after an engagement session here.
The video shows a group of men, believed to be Pakistani Shia followers, chanting religious verses while dancing at a premises in the capital.
Monitoring is being carried out continuously by JAKIM and state Islamic authorities.
In a separate statement, JAKIM said checks found the issue has drawn widespread attention from netizens.
The video has been reshared by local religious figures, it added.
In comment sections, netizens tagged various government agencies and leaders urging immediate action.
JAKIM reiterated that Shia teachings have been declared contrary to the creed of Ahli Sunnah Wal Jamaah.
This includes a ruling by the Muzakarah Committee of the National Council for Islamic Religious Affairs Malaysia in 1996.
Nearly all states have issued fatwas prohibiting the dissemination of Shia teachings among Muslims.
These include Selangor, the federal territories, Johor, Negeri Sembilan and Kelantan.
