By Suhaila Shahrul Annuar
SHAH ALAM, Nov 6 — University students and administrative members are urged to immediately report to authorities if they have any information regarding the spread or practice of deviant teachings on campus.
Islamic Development Department (Jakim) research division senior assistant director Radihan Saari said there is an emphasised need for vigilance, noting that extremist groups have become increasingly cunning in spreading their ideologies.
He said these groups often disguise their activities under programmes such as charity, academic, and scholarly events that do not explicitly convey their deviant beliefs.
“It is our responsibility to report them. If it happens in the Federal Territories, report to the Federal Territories Islamic Religious Department, and if it’s in Selangor, then report to the Selangor Islamic Religious Department or any police station.
“However, certain parties are cunning, so we must remain vigilant,” he said during a seminar on understanding extremism among student leaders of public and private higher learning institutions here yesterday.
At the same event, Bukit Aman E2 special branch’s Bakari Bakar stressed on the importance of reporting cases of deviant teaching to allow the authorities to take necessary action.
“If there are elements, for instance, trying to convert Muslims to Christianity, that is a serious offence. Report it to the university authorities, the police, and we will investigate thoroughly.
“For example, if a group distributes leaflets saying ‘Love God, Jesus’ among themselves, it’s not an issue, but if distributed to Muslims, it is a major offence.
“If you see non-Muslims trying to distribute non-Islam reading materials (with the intention of spreading their religion), take a photo, identify where it’s from, and gather necessary evidence. Report it to the university authorities and the police; this is a communal obligation for all of us.”
About 400 participants attended the seminar yesterday, which was aimed at cultivating leaders and citizens with a clear understanding of religious practices free of radical ideologies.
