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SINGAPORE – The Singapore Islamic Religious Council (Muis) has refuted allegations that it took no action for four years against the deviant religious teachings of a man that came to public attention last month.
The council said in a statement on Tuesday (December 1) that it had investigated the man in question, a former massage therapist in his 50s, and had taken appropriate action, adding that it is working with agencies to conduct further investigation. on the matter. .
Muis ‘decision to re-investigate this alleged leader of a deviant religious group here comes after The Straits Times’ exposition of the man and the group, published on November 9.
Muis’s earlier statement on the matter, on November 10, revealed that he was first alerted to the case in 2018 and that he had taken action at the time. But some people online have claimed that the advice did not address the problem.
“Recently there have been posts on social media alleging that Muis failed to take action for four years against a deviant teaching case until the case was brought to the public’s attention in 2020. These statements are inaccurate,” Muis said.
The council noted how it had already investigated the matter in 2018 and taken the necessary steps, including interviewing the man in question and issuing a formal notice for him to cease activities.
The man is believed to have led the group, whose followers help run a small restaurant and event management business, for 15 years.
ST reported that among his teachings, the man professes to be Prophet Muhammad, allows gambling to help needy Muslims, and aspires to have 13 spiritual wives.
Muis’ formal notice to the man, who is not a qualified or registered religious teacher under the Asatizah Recognition System, was to cease his religious activities immediately.
On Tuesday, the council reiterated its call for those with credible evidence about the man to come forward and assist in its investigations.
Those with reliable evidence, such as emails, recordings and other documents, who are willing to testify must submit their presentations by Dec. 11, Muis said, repeating his previous appeal for such evidence.
While acknowledging that the Muslim community here has been deeply concerned about the issue of deviant teachings, Muis said the public must act responsibly, especially when commenting on social media platforms.
The council added: “We should also not comment when a matter is still under investigation, lest we unknowingly throw slander and falsehoods on parties who may be innocent. This goes against the spirit of the law and the principles of natural justice.”
Muis said he has been accused of not being serious in combating deviant teachings, with some even questioning his general responsiveness to facilitate the socio-religious life of the Muslim community here.
Such comments are “deeply unfortunate,” the council said, highlighting how deeply it is committed to supporting the community, for example strengthening religious schools here, combating the threat of extremism and helping people adjust to disruptions of the Covid-19 pandemic.
He warned that he would not hesitate to take legal action against those who continue to spread falsehoods and unfounded accusations.
“As an organization that serves the community and works closely with the Muslim community, we strongly believe in consultation and are open to feedback,” Muis said.
“However, we do not appreciate the unsubstantiated allegations and sprays that serve to erode trust and the close relationship between Muis and the community.”
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