JAINJ'S GENTLE APPROACH BRINGS BACK FORMER GISBH FOLLOWERS BACK TO TRUE ISLAMIC TEACHINGS

KOTA TINGGI, Nov 30 (Bernama) -- The gentle and wise approach adopted by the Johor Islamic Religious Department (JAINJ) in delivering lectures and guidance has helped open the hearts of former followers of GISB Holdings Sdn Bhd (GISBH), prompting them to return to the true teachings of Islam.

For 68-year-old Mohd Normateen Mohd Sharif, the sessions he attended were not only rich in knowledge but were also conducted with courtesy, patience and without any form of pressure.

“JAINJ provides a lot of religious knowledge during their lectures. There is no shouting or harshness. As Muslims, we must live by the knowledge shared by those who are wise, not merely listen to it.

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“At this stage of my life, I acknowledge that I have made many mistakes. When the government guided and corrected me, I am truly grateful,” he said when met after completing the Faith Strengthening Course and Istitabah Programme for Former Johor GISBH Members 2025.

"At the end of my life, I admit to making many mistakes, and when enlightened (of the mistakes) and guided to the right path, I’m indeed very grateful," he said when met after the completion of a course for former GISBH members here today.

Having been a GISBH follower for nearly 30 years, he urged current members of the group to come forward and participate in the programme.

“I advise those who have not joined this course to surrender themselves and attend. There are many benefits. The religious exposure provided is very helpful. If there are more classes, I will gladly attend,” said the former soldier.

Mohd Normateen is among 277 former GISBH members who completed 36 class sessions organised by JAINJ since last year, culminating in a certificate presentation ceremony at a mosque today.

Meanwhile, State Islamic Religious Affairs Committee chairman Mohd Fared Mohd Khalid said the government's approach aims to purify faith and eradicate deviant teachings in Johor.

He said the initiative aligns with the directive of His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, who has called for stronger action against deviant teachings.

According to Mohd Fared, all former GISBH members involved cooperated fully and attended every class held, acknowledging the errors in their past beliefs.

He added that the state government is also extending various forms of support, including living and schooling assistance through the Johor Islamic Religious Council (MAINJ) and assistance from the Social Welfare Department (JKM).

An estimated 50 more former GISBH members and around 80 individuals associated with the “kuda kepang” performance are expected to undergo the same course soon.

Johor is among the states that have issued a fatwa declaring the teachings and practices of GISBH as deviant, in line with the decision of the National Council for Islamic Religious Affairs Malaysia (MKI).

-- BERNAMA