Bernie Wilson
Updated on: October 13, 2024 4:14 pm GMT
In recent weeks, the Global Ikhwan Services and Business Holdings Sdn Bhd (GISBH) has been thrust into the public’s eye amid serious accusations of engaging in criminal activities including child exploitation and human trafficking. With its controversial history intertwined with the disbanded Al-Arqam movement, many are left wondering how these connections have evolved over the years. The ongoing investigations are raising urgent questions about the group’s practices, beliefs, and future.
The Origin of Al-Arqam
Al-Arqam was founded in 1968 in Kuala Lumpur by Ashaari Mohammad, a former government religious teacher. Initially meeting at a residential property known as “Rumah Putih” (White House), the group quickly gained traction among young Malays, despite facing backlash for its teachings. By the mid-1970s, it had established a self-sufficient village featuring a mosque and a school, all operating on Islamic principles.
In 1986, the group faced controversy over Ashaari’s book, *Aurad*, which made unique claims about the Prophet Muhammad that raised eyebrows among Islamic scholars. This book, along with unregistered schools and teachings that diverged from the national curriculum, led to Al-Arqam being officially declared a deviant movement in 1994. The movement was subsequently banned by the National Fatwa Council in 1998.
The End of Al-Arqam and the Rise of GISBH
Despite its ban, Ashaari’s legacy continued through the business ventures that emerged from Al-Arqam. After his death in 2010, the movement’s business arm, initially known as the Arqam Group, was rebranded multiple times, eventually evolving into GISBH. Today, GISBH positions itself as a significant player in the halal economy, with assets worth approximately RM325 million and business operations in over 20 countries, including supermarkets, restaurants, and hotels.
- Established in 1968 by Ashaari Mohammad.
- Legitimized practices through Islamic principles.
- Declared a deviant group in 1994, resulting in a ban.
- Evolved into GISBH after Ashaari’s death, focusing on halal business initiatives.
Current Investigations and Allegations
The revelations surrounding GISBH have painted a troubling picture. In early September 2023, police operations dubbed *Op Global* began focusing on the group amid allegations of human trafficking and child sexual exploitation. As part of these operations, authorities conducted raids in multiple states, rescuing over 400 children linked to network activities and arresting around 200 suspects, including senior GISBH executives.
The investigation has continued to unfold, with disturbing reports emerging about the treatment and indoctrination of former members. Many have claimed they were led to believe their leaders were divinely appointed and were subjected to a range of abusive practices. Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Razarudin Husain underscored the severity of these allegations during a recent press conference.
Seizures and Evidence Collected
Recent police raids have also recovered various items that hint at the alleged illegal practices within GISBH. The police seized:
- Beard trimmings stored in a special container.
- 455 pamphlets and instructional materials related to controversial teachings.
- A significant quantity of cash and assets linked to the group.
These materials are purportedly linked to the *Aurad Muhammadiyah* teachings, which have been deemed illegal under a fatwa since 1994.
The Expected Outcome Following Investigations
The implications of the ongoing investigations mean that GISBH’s operations may face significant scrutiny moving forward. Malaysia’s Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department for Religious Affairs, Mohd Na’im Mokhtar, announced that a special session involving the Conference of Rulers would convene in October to review GISBH’s doctrines and practices following these incidents.
“We will prepare a special report presenting the findings related to GISBH for the Conference’s consideration,” he stated. This indicates the seriousness of the situation and the potential for further legal repercussions for the group if the reports corroborate the alarming allegations against it.
Public Response and Community Impact
As investigations progress, the public response has been stark. Community leaders expressed alarm over the allegations, especially regarding the abuse of children. Parents are concerned about the safety of their children and the potential influence of groups like GISBH that claim religious legitimacy while being investigated for severe crimes. The impact of such revelations can have far-reaching effects on perceptions of religious groups within Malaysia.
In addition, the ongoing discussion about deviance and proper conduct within Islamic teachings has brought religion into the forefront of social discourse. Many hope that swift and decisive action will follow the investigations, either reinforcing or dispelling long-standing suspicions regarding GISBH’s legitimacy.
Conclusion
People are closely watching GISBH because there are serious worries about the group and what kind of strange beliefs can come from religious movements. This situation reminds us that we need to be careful to protect our faith and keep children safe. As new information comes out, everyone in Malaysia is eager to see what choices will be made in October and how those choices will impact GISBH and other groups like it.
