KLUANG: The public is urged to remain calm and allow the authorities to carry out their investigation into issues involving Global Ikhwan Service and Business Holdings Sdn Bhd (GISB).
Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said that the police investigation will take time as the case involves many victims, including children.
He noted that the investigation will also involve other professionals, such as psychologists, counsellors, and medical officers.
"We need a significant amount of time to conduct the investigation related to GISB due to the large number of arrests and the involvement of various parties.
"That is why we are asking the public to stay calm and let the authorities carry out their investigation. Once the investigation papers are completed, appropriate action will be taken," he said after attending the Inspirasi Malaysia (I'M) Programme at Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan (SMK) Tengku Aris Bendahara today.
Also present were Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek and Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Razarudin Husain.
Saifuddin explained that decisions regarding GISB's business licence will involve many agencies and local authorities (PBT).
He added that the police will take action based on four legal provisions, including the Child Act and the Sexual Offences Against Children Act.
Meanwhile, Fadhlina said the Education Ministry would take action against parents who fail to send their children to school.
She noted that there are laws stressing the importance of education, particularly at the primary school level, and parents could face consequences if they neglect this responsibility.
"However, I would like to reiterate that we will leave it to the authorities to conduct their investigation. At the same time, parents must ensure their children attend school, as it is compulsory within the framework of mandatory education," she said.
On Sept 11, police rescued 402 children from 20 homes connected to GISB during a raid, leading to 171 arrests.
Razarudin said the victims, who were locals, had endured various forms of exploitation and abuse including being sodomised.
Yesterday, it was revealed that the 402 children rescued during a police raid on 20 welfare homes yesterday are believed to be the children of members of GISB.
Police also received information that they were also taught the act of sodomy and forced to sodomise other children in the home.
GISB has since denied the allegations and threatened legal action against those who defame the company.
Meanwhile, Jais said it is continuously monitoring the activities of GISB members due to their links with the Al-Arqam and Rufaqa' groups.