Human rights activist and lawyer Siti Kasim has sharply criticized the Malaysian Islamic Development Department (JAKIM) for its perceived negligence in tackling extremist groups like Global Ikhwan, while being overly focused on halal certification issues. Her remarks come in response to recent revelations about the abuse of children in welfare homes linked to the Global Ikhwan Group.
In a Facebook video, Siti Kasim expressed outrage over JAKIM’s lack of involvement in monitoring extremist groups. She argued that JAKIM's preoccupation with halal matters has led to a failure in addressing serious issues like the abuse and exploitation of children. This criticism was triggered by a statement from Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Razarudin Husain, who disclosed that 402 children were rescued from 20 welfare homes in Selangor and Negeri Sembilan. These homes are allegedly connected to the Global Ikhwan Group and the children were reportedly subjected to severe sexual abuse and physical violence.
“JAKIM should be focusing on monitoring extremist groups such as Global Ikhwan, where serious allegations of child sexual abuse have emerged,” Siti Kasim said. “It is troubling that there has been no substantial reaction or condemnation from JAKIM or Malay/Muslim politicians regarding this issue. Are these leaders too entangled with Global Ikhwan, as evidenced by photos of their interactions with high-profile figures like our Prime Minister?”
Global Ikhwan's corporate entity, GISB Holdings Sdn Bhd, which evolved from the controversial Al-Arqam sect, has denied any involvement in child exploitation. In a statement released on September 11, GISB Holdings refuted the allegations and expressed their commitment to cooperating with investigations. They denounced the claims as serious and malicious, asserting that the welfare homes in question do not fall under their jurisdiction and threatened legal action against those they believe are attempting to damage their reputation.
Siti Kasim also criticized Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim for not taking a stronger stance against the abuses. She highlighted that, while the police have acted promptly following reports, the issue had been discussed publicly for months, notably by Perlis Mufti Datuk Dr Mohd Asri Zainul Abidin, who had previously criticized the group.
“There has been a disturbing lack of condemnation from both government and opposition Malay leaders regarding this scandal,” Siti Kasim noted. “It is disheartening to see such a significant incident being met with a muted response, especially when similar issues involving non-Malays or non-Muslims would have elicited a much more vigorous reaction.”
She also took aim at UMNO Youth leader Datuk Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh, accusing him of a tepid and double-standard response to the situation. Siti Kasim contrasted Akmal Saleh’s restrained comments with the more aggressive rhetoric often used in past controversies, such as the sock-gate saga involving DAP vice-chairman Teresa Kok.
“The response from Akmal Saleh was notably mild compared to the fierce criticism directed at other individuals in similar situations,” she said. “His call for patience in allowing the authorities to do their job contrasts sharply with the harsh language used in previous political disputes.”
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