Money Laundering & Islamic Schools: Mufti of Kelantan Urges Crackdown on Misuse of Islamic Schools for Money Laundering

24 Oct 2025 • 12:00 PM MYT
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Kelantan’s Mufti, Datuk Mohamad Shukri Mohamad, has urged heightened vigilance to safeguard the reputation of Islamic institutions amid growing concerns that some unregistered madrasahs could be misused for money-laundering or spreading deviant ideologies.

He warned that the misuse of religious platforms for criminal or unethical purposes not only violates the law but also endangers the sanctity of Islam. Activities that lead to corruption or exploitation, he said, go against Islamic values, as faith demands purity in both action and intention. Only deeds rooted in honesty and lawful means, he noted, are acceptable in the eyes of God.

The Mufti commended the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) for their proactive response in detecting potential threats to the integrity of religious institutions. Although no formal complaints have been lodged so far, recent police intelligence has suggested that some unregistered Islamic schools in Kelantan may be serving as fronts for illicit operations. Law enforcement agencies have since increased surveillance to ensure these institutions are not misused for financial crimes or the spread of extremist teachings.

Datuk Mohamad Shukri reminded the public not to generalise or cast suspicion on all Islamic educational institutions, pointing out that most madrasahs and tahfiz centres operate legitimately and contribute positively to society. He cautioned against allowing the actions of a few to damage the image of the entire religious education system, saying that collective judgment could unjustly penalise genuine educators and students devoted to faith-based learning.

Police reports indicate that nearly half of Kelantan’s madrasahs are not registered with the Kelantan Islamic Religious and Malay Customs Council (MAIK). Authorities are now monitoring several of these unregistered schools to ensure they comply with regulations and do not divert funds towards illegal or unethical activities.

The Mufti called for closer collaboration among community leaders, religious bodies, and enforcement agencies to protect the credibility of Islamic institutions. He stressed that maintaining transparency and accountability in religious education is essential to preserving public trust and upholding the moral standards that define Islamic learning.

His remarks come as part of a broader effort by state authorities to strengthen oversight of religious institutions, ensuring that they remain centres of faith and education, not tools for exploitation or deceit.


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