The Johor Islamic Religious Department (JAINJ) has ramped up its surveillance of five out of the 19 deviant teachings that have been outlawed in the state.
According to Johor Islamic Religious Affairs Committee chairman, Mohd Fared Mohd Khalid, the groups under strict watch include Syiah, Hizbut Tahrir, Millah Abraham, Suhaini Mohammad (Sihulk), and Qadiani.
This year, two reports regarding the Millah Abraham teachings have been filed in Segamat and Pontian. However, there have been no complaints concerning Syiah and Hizbut Tahrir so far.
Sihulk is highly active on social media and is constantly monitored by JAINJ’s Enforcement Division along with the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC). This group has significant activity in New Zealand,” Mohd Fared noted.
He added that the Qadiani teachings are in the process of being re-declared as contradicting Islamic teachings through a fatwa.
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Speaking after the Religious Teachers’ Day celebration, Mohd Fared emphasized JAINJ’s vigilance and readiness to act against the propagation of these teachings.
Since 1986, Johor has declared 19 teachings or beliefs as deviating from Ahli Sunnah Wal Jamaah principles. This includes groups such as Ayah Pin, Wahabi, Taslim, Ilmu Makrifat, Gunung Ledang Tangkak, Azman Samat, Yayi, and Hadi Minallah.
Addressing the arrests and prosecutions of followers of deviant teachings and groups, including the Islamic State (IS) terrorist group in Johor, Mohd Fared stated that these actions underscore the authorities’ dedication to their duties. The state government, he said, is committed to continuing its cooperation in eradicating such teachings.
We are determined to identify anyone involved, regardless of their role, if their actions violate national laws or state regulations, particularly in relation to criminal activities and deviant teachings,” he asserted.
“I am pleased with the number of arrests as it indicates that we have identified more followers of these deviant teachings, highlighting that there are still individuals out there engaging in such activities,” he concluded. — Bernama
