Malaysia: Hundreds of Children Sexually Abused in Care Homes
Over 300 individuals have been arrested following the exposure of severe child sexual abuse connected to a cult. What will be the fallout from these shocking revelations?
The Nightmare of Foster Homes in Malaysia
A chilling incident has rocked Malaysia, leading to over 300 arrests following revelations of severe abuse in foster homes. Malaysian authorities have reported a staggering 355 arrests linked to this investigation.
A Violence Network Tied to a Cult
The focus is on the Global Ikhwan Service and Business Holding (GISB), accused of managing these “houses of horror” while maintaining ties with the banned Islamist sect Al-Arqam. Arrests include GISB’s CEO, Nasiruddin Ali, and 30 other group members.
Raids were conducted at various locations including religious schools, businesses, charity centers, health institutes, and private residences. According to Inspector General Razarudin Husain, it is believed that the child victims were members of the GISB community.
Chilling Confessions
Initially, GISB denied all allegations, even claiming no management over the implicated centers. However, on September 14, the CEO admitted to sexual violence occurring within the homes, including “one or two cases of sodomy.”
Medical examinations have confirmed at least 13 cases of sexual violence against children, stated Inspector Husain. He also announced the freezing of 96 GISB-related accounts, totaling about 124,000 dollars (111,000 euros).
A Country in Shock
The scandal has raised serious concerns about child protection in foster homes and the regulation of charitable organizations in the country. UNICEF has condemned the “unimaginable horrors” suffered by the young victims, highlighting their need for long-term medical and psychological support.
The Al-Arqam sect, dissolved in 1994 due to its deviant teachings, continues to be closely monitored by religious authorities in the predominantly Muslim country. GISB, for its part, is an Islamic holding managing businesses across several countries including Indonesia, the UK, and France.