GEORGE TOWN – Penang has become the latest state to declare the teachings, practices, and ideology of Global Ikhwan Services and Business Holdings (GISB) as deviant, following similar actions by Perlis, Selangor, Pahang, and Melaka.
In a statement today, Penang Deputy Chief Minister I, Datuk Mohamad Abdul Hamid, revealed that the state fatwa committee has determined that GISB and its network are still promoting the prohibited Aurad Muhammadiah.
Mohamad further stated that GISB Holdings engages in practices of “slavery and oppression” within its economic activities, exploiting members, particularly women and children.
“Therefore, the fatwa committee has decided that Muslims – either individually or in groups – are forbidden from practising or adhering to GISB’s ideology and practices.
“Muslims are forbidden from becoming followers or declaring themselves as such, as well as participating in any events or celebrations associated with teachings, ideology, or practices similar to those of GISB.
“They are also forbidden from possessing, publishing, copying, printing, selling, or distributing any materials related to GISB,” said Mohamad.
The deputy chief minister also announced that the Penang government has established Kompleks Darul Hidayah (KDH) in Permatang Tok Gelah, Penaga, as a voluntary rehabilitation centre for Muslims to restore their faith.
The rehabilitation programmes at KDH will focus on guiding individuals in the foundations of Islam and reinforcing the teachings of Ahli Sunnah Wal Jamaah. As of now, no GISB members have been received at the centre for the faith restoration process.
“However, the state government, through the relevant agencies and departments, will ensure that the faith restoration plans are implemented effectively and holistically for all GISB members in Penang,” he added.
Police launched Op Global against GISB Holdings with raids on welfare homes on 11 September, after months of gathering intelligence. Nearly 600 children were rescued from the homes and are now under government care.
On 23 September, police announced they had frozen 153 bank accounts linked to GISB Holdings, amounting to RM882,795.94, and shut down 15 other accounts out of a total of 183 tied to the company.
It was previously reported that GISB Holdings operates 415 business outlets across 20 countries in various sectors under 25 subsidiaries.
To date, more than 400 individuals connected to GISB have been arrested, with 58 of them held under the Security Offences (Special Measures) Act 2012 (Sosma). – October 18, 2024