The controversial Islamic organisation Global Ikhwan Sdn Bhd (GISB) in Malaysia has come under scrutiny due to its links to the now-banned Al-Arqam sect and its promotion of an “Obedient Wives Club.” The group operates businesses in various countries and has been accused of housing children of its members in care homes. Malaysian police suspect that all 402 children in these care homes are fathered by GISB members and are planning to conduct DNA tests to confirm this.
The Malaysian authorities have been monitoring GISB’s activities closely, due to concerns about potential deviations from Islamic teachings. The country has a dual-track legal system, with Muslims subject to sharia laws in certain areas. The UN children’s agency, UNICEF, has highlighted the “unimaginable horror” faced by the victims in this case and emphasized the need for long-term medical and psychosocial support for the affected children. The community has been shocked by these revelations, with residents expressing their disbelief and concern about the situation.
The Al-Arqam sect, of which GISB was associated, was banned by authorities in 1994 for its deviant teachings. In 2011, members of GISB established an “Obedient Wives Club” that sparked controversy for its promotion of practices seen as degrading to women. Despite these controversies, GISB continues to operate businesses ranging from supermarkets to restaurants in multiple countries, including Indonesia, France, and the United Kingdom.
The police believe that the children in the care homes are all offspring of GISB members. The inspector-general stated that DNA samples would be necessary to confirm this suspicion. Islamic religious authorities in Selangor stressed the importance of upholding true Islamic teachings and staying vigilant against any deviations. The shocking nature of the case has left local residents like Uzair Abdul Aziz in disbelief and concern, echoing the sentiment of many in the community who are grappling with this disturbing revelation.
The Malaysian authorities are taking steps to investigate and address the situation, recognizing the need for DNA testing to provide clarity on the parentage of the children in the care homes. This case underscores the importance of upholding Islamic teachings and safeguarding the rights and welfare of children in the country. The UNICEF representative has emphasized the need for ongoing support for the victims who have experienced unimaginable trauma and highlighted the long-term impact of such experiences on their well-being.
In conclusion, the controversy surrounding GISB and its involvement with the Al-Arqam sect has brought attention to issues of child welfare, Islamic teachings, and social responsibility in Malaysia. The case has raised concerns about potential violations of religious principles and the well-being of vulnerable children under the care of the organization. The authorities, religious leaders, and community members are all grappling with the shock and gravity of the situation, underscoring the importance of accountability, transparency, and protection of children’s rights in the country.
