SINGAPORE: Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar of Malaysia has mandated a prompt and comprehensive investigation into serious allegations of child abuse at care homes linked to the Global Ikhwan Services and Business Holdings (GISB). This follows recent police raids revealing alarming cases of mistreatment.
Last week, Malaysian authorities conducted raids on care homes in Selangor and Negeri Sembilan affiliated with GISB, leading to the rescue of 402 children who were allegedly subjected to various forms of abuse, including sexual abuse. Sultan Ibrahim, deeply troubled by these reports, has called for immediate action and a thorough investigation into the matter.
In a Facebook post on Tuesday, Sultan Ibrahim emphasized the importance of handling sensitive religious issues with care and advised against making extreme statements. He reiterated his demand for a full investigation and swift action.
On September 11, Inspector-General of Police Razarudin Husain announced that the rescued children, aged between one and 17, included an equal number of boys and girls. The operation, codenamed Op Global, involved 20 care homes in Selangor and Negeri Sembilan.
The police have arrested 171 individuals, including caretakers and religious instructors, and are preparing to submit three investigation files to the Attorney General’s Chambers. They also plan to seek an extension of the suspects’ remand to facilitate further investigation.
Moreover, the authorities have recorded statements from 740 people, comprising 30 complainants, 216 witnesses, 392 victims, and 102 suspects.
