Kuala Lumpur, Oct 23 (EFE).- The Malaysian Prosecutor’s Office accused this Wednesday the director and twenty executives of an Islamic conglomerate of organized crime allegedly behind the abuses committed against 402 minors rescued from shelters in the country.
One of the accused is Nasiruddin Mohd Ali, 65, CEO of Global Ikhwan Services and Business Holdings (GISBH), a conglomerate with numerous businesses in the food, education and hospitality sectors in around twenty countries, such as Indonesia, Singapore, Egypt , Saudi Arabia, France, Australia and Thailand.
Ali’s lawyer, Rosli Kamaruddin, who leads a group of lawyers representing the 22 detainees, including the company director, said in a statement that so far no further charges have been brought against those GISBH employees, thirteen men. and nine women between 27 and 65 years old, whose trial will begin at the Kuala Lumpur High Court on December 23.
If found guilty, they face sentences of between 5 and 20 years in prison, the lawyer said.
The Malaysian Police are investigating GISBG for its alleged role in the physical, sexual and psychological abuse of 402 minors rescued from shelters in Malaysia allegedly managed by the conglomerate.
The minors, 201 boys and 201 girls between 1 and 17 years old, were rescued by security forces on September 11 from around twenty shelters after several complaints against GISBH.
A week later the Police arrested the director of the conglomerate and the twenty accused group executives.
The agents indicated that there are videos that circulated on social networks in which the victims were being beaten, whipped and groped on the chest and genitals, in addition to being subjected to labor exploitation and malnutrition.
More than a dozen were raped, according to police, and some were sick or disabled.
Most of the children were children of GISBH members abandoned in shelters shortly after birth.
As part of the investigations into the group after the rescue, on October 13, the Malaysian authorities accused three managers of a hotel belonging to the conglomerate of sexual abuse and human trafficking, while hundreds of people have been arrested.
During the operation, documents were found that link GISBH to the Islamic teachings banned in Malaysia by its founder in 2010, Ashaari Muhammad, leader of the controversial Al-Arqam sect, censored in the 1990s for deviating from the precepts of Islam.
Although it acknowledges its original ties to Al-Arqam, GISBH denies the accusations and says its practices comply with Islamic teachings and the laws of Muslim-majority Malaysia.
The company has been involved in other controversies, such as creating the so-called Obedient Wives Club, which taught women to be submissive to their husbands. EFE
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Interview with Dr. Amina Rahman, Child Welfare Advocate
Interviewer: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Rahman. The recent accusations against the Islamic conglomerate GISBH regarding the abuse of minors are shocking. What was your first reaction upon hearing this news?
Dr. Amina Rahman: Thank you for having me. My immediate reaction was one of horror and disbelief. The fact that over 400 children have reportedly been subjected to such heinous acts within institutions that were supposed to care for them is deeply troubling. This news underscores the systemic failures in safeguarding vulnerable populations.
Interviewer: The Malaysian Prosecutor’s Office has charged various executives from GISBH, including the CEO. What are the implications of these charges for child protection policies in Malaysia?
Dr. Rahman: These charges could serve as a catalyst for significant reform in child protection policies in Malaysia. It highlights the critical need for stringent oversight and accountability in all shelters and institutions caring for children. We must ensure that these facilities are subject to thorough inspections and that protective measures are in place to prevent abuse.
Interviewer: Reports indicate that there are videos circulating that depict the abuse of these minors. How important is it for the authorities to address the dissemination of such materials?
Dr. Rahman: It’s imperative. Not only does it further traumatize the victims, but it also poses serious ethical concerns regarding their privacy and dignity. Authorities need to take firm action against those who share such materials, as this can hinder the healing process for the children involved. Furthermore, it is vital for law enforcement to use these materials to build a strong case against the perpetrators.
Interviewer: There are indications that the minors were part of a specific religious sect associated with GISBH. How do sect affiliations complicate this case?
Dr. Rahman: Sectarian affiliations can complicate investigations due to potential community biases and the influence of charismatic leaders. This situation can create a culture of silence and complicity, where victims may feel pressured to remain silent. It’s crucial for investigators to approach these cases with sensitivity and to ensure that the children feel safe and supported in coming forward.
Interviewer: What steps can the community take to support the survivors of this abuse?
Dr. Rahman: The community plays a vital role in the recovery of these children. First and foremost, there needs to be a concerted effort to provide psychological support and counseling for the survivors. Additionally, advocacy groups must push for changes in policy to protect children in the future. Creating awareness about children’s rights and fostering a supportive environment where victims feel safe to speak out is essential.
Interviewer: As the trial approaches, what are your hopes for justice in this case?
Dr. Rahman: My hope is that justice prevails and that the legal system holds the responsible parties accountable for their actions. While it’s essential to seek punishment for the guilty, we must not lose sight of the need to provide ongoing support to the survivors. Justice should also encompass reparations and a commitment to reforming systems to prevent future abuse.
Interviewer: Thank you for sharing your insights with us, Dr. Rahman. Your expertise sheds light on this troubling situation.
Dr. Rahman: Thank you for highlighting this important issue. It’s crucial that we continue to advocate for the protection of our children.
Interviewer: Thank you, Dr. Rahman. Given the previous controversies surrounding GISBH and its connections to the Al-Arqam sect, what steps should the Malaysian government take to prevent similar situations in the future?
Dr. Rahman: The government must prioritize comprehensive regulatory frameworks for organizations operating in the child welfare space. This includes enforcing strict licensing requirements for shelters and a transparent monitoring system to ensure adherence to child protection standards. It’s also essential to strengthen collaboration with NGOs and child advocacy groups to create a community-based oversight mechanism that holds institutions accountable.
Interviewer: What role do community awareness and education play in combating child abuse in such contexts?
Dr. Rahman: Education is critical. Communities need to be aware of the signs of abuse and understand their role in protecting vulnerable populations. Additionally, educating parents and guardians about their children’s rights and how to report suspicious behavior can empower them to take action. It is equally important to foster open dialogues about child safety within communities, breaking the stigma and silence surrounding these issues.
Interviewer: Given the gravity of the situation and the ongoing trial scheduled for December 23, what message would you like to convey to those affected by these incidents?
Dr. Rahman: To the victims and their families, I want to extend my deepest sympathies and solidarity. It is crucial to remind them that they are not alone and there is support available. Healing is a process, and seeking help from professionals who specialize in trauma can facilitate recovery. The wider community must rally behind these children, advocating for their rights and ensuring they receive the care and protection they deserve moving forward.
Interviewer: Thank you for your insights, Dr. Rahman. Your expertise in child welfare is invaluable in shedding light on such critical issues.
Dr. Rahman: Thank you for having me. It’s essential we keep these discussions going to advocate for better protection of our children.
