SHAH ALAM, Oct 4 — Muslims in the state have been urged to distance themselves from GISB Holdings (GISBH) teachings and practices as they are misleading and deviate from true Islamic faith.
According to the Friday sermon delivered by imam Mohd Luqman Hakkim Rizuan, titled “Purify the Aqeedah of GISBH Followers”, there were four types of deviations identified within GISBH, including their belief in the resurrection of the deceased leader of al-Arqam.
The sermon, published by the Khutbah Unit of the Mosque Management Division of the Selangor Islamic Religious Department, said another example of deviant beliefs was the notion that As-Suhaimi only died in a physical sense, while in reality he is in hiding and will reappear as Imam Mahdi.
In addition, there is a concerning fervour and veneration towards the leadership of Ashaari Muhammad, who is believed to possess extraordinary spiritual powers.
“There are also claims they believe Sheikh Muhammad al-Suhaimi will return as Imam Mahdi,” the sermon text states.
Sultan of Selangor Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah Alhaj attended the sermon and performed Friday prayers at the Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Mosque today.
According to the sermon, there are elements of superstition and shirking prevalent in the original teachings of Al-Arqam, such as the belief that Abuya’s mind is a revelation from God, and that God informs him of illnesses among his followers, along with the belief that he possesses foresight.
“Even after the Al-Arqam group was banned in 1994 and transformed into GISBH, these elements are still subtly observed in the beliefs and practices of its members,” the sermon stated.
As for the fourth deviation, they endorse polygamy practices that do not comply with Islamic law and current legislation, as well as conduct seminars and campaigns to promote polygamy among their members.
“While polygamy is permitted in Islam, the group’s approach to this practice is often criticised as it tends to neglect the rights and well-being of women,” the text notes.
In light of this, Muslims are advised to adhere to teachings based on the beliefs of Ahli Sunnah Wal-Jamaah and to be aware of such groups to avoid confusion and deviating from the true path.
“Muslims should be more cautious, exercise tabayyun (verification) and conduct research before following religious words or practices, by referring to state religious authorities,” said the sermon.
Yesterday, the Sultan of Selangor endorsed an edict issued by the Selangor State Fatwa Committee that the leaders, followers and workers of GISBH and its network deviate from true Islamic faith.
GISBH members are believed to still practise Aurad Muhammadiah brought forth by the Darul Arqam group, which was declared to have deviated from true Islamic beliefs, according to Gazette No. 54, published on February 4, 1993.
When contacted, state executive councillor for Islam and innovation Dr Fahmi Ngah said the Sultan of Selangor was informed about the decision of the fatwa council yesterday, and clarified the edict on GISBH must undergo gazettement before it can be enforced.
— Bernama
