Malaysian authorities rescued over 400 children and teenagers on Wednesday who were suspected of being sexually abused at charity homes run by Global Ikhwan Services and Business (GISB), a prominent Islamic business organisation with ties to a banned religious sect.
The operation, coordinated by police, resulted in the arrest of 171 adults, including Islamic religious teachers or “ustazs,” during raids on 20 premises across two states, according to Inspector-General of Police Razarudin Husain.
The rescued individuals, consisting of 201 boys and 201 girls aged between one and 17, had allegedly suffered neglect, abuse, sexual harassment, and molestation, based on reports filed earlier this month. The origins of these reports were not disclosed.
GISB, a Malaysian firm with businesses in various countries like Indonesia, Singapore, Egypt, and Australia, did not immediately comment on the abuse allegations. However, in a separate statement, GISB denied social media claims of child labor exploitation, stating that it operates lawfully and is cooperating with authorities.
Preliminary investigations indicated that the minors rescued were children of GISB employees and were placed in the homes shortly after birth, where they were subjected to abuse, including sodomy. Some victims were reportedly taught to abuse other children in the homes.
GISB has historical links to the now-banned Al-Arqam religious sect, which was prohibited in 1994. While GISB acknowledges this connection, it now presents itself as a legitimate Islamic conglomerate. The firm has previously garnered attention for its controversial views on marriage, promoting polygamy and establishing the Obedient Wives’ Club, which encouraged women to submit to their husbands “like prostitutes.”
Razarudin said some children at the homes who protested or misbehaved had hot spoons pressed on their arms, creating injuries, while others were molested under the pretext of carrying out medical treatment according to Islamic teachings.
“The children and religious sentiments were also used to gain public sympathy and raise funds for the organisation,” he said, referring to GISB.
“What we have seen is the indoctrination of children using religious tools in a harmful way.”
The children will be sent for health screening and documentation, Razarudin said, adding that the case was being investigated under laws covering sexual offences against children and human trafficking.
