Child abuse investigation in Malaysia: 200 people arrested so far, including GISB members

GISB CEO Nasiruddin Mohd Ali was arrested on September 19 along with his two wives and children.

Nasiruddin denied allegations that there was widespread abuse and other misconduct in the nursing homes, but acknowledged that there had been “one or two” cases of sodomy.

Police have said GISB is linked to a banned religious sect. Founded in 2010, the group owns bakeries, mini-markets and other businesses in Malaysia and elsewhere and has assets totaling about 325 million Malaysian ringgit ($75.6 million) worldwide.

The Sultan of Selangor calls for action

The Sultan of Selangor on Saturday expressed his disappointment over the lack of effective action against GISB.

“We must accept the fact that the delay in addressing this issue has highlighted the weaknesses in monitoring and enforcing laws by religious organisations against charitable homes and religious schools associated with GISB,” said a statement from the Selangor Royal Office, The Star reported.

“The organization’s network is so large that this problem is serious and out of control.”

Police reiterated on Saturday that they would thoroughly investigate the allegations of child abuse.

“We remain committed to thoroughly investigating this operation. We urge the public not to speculate about the case while the investigation is ongoing,” Razarudin said, according to the Star.

He urged victims or anyone with information about the case to come forward.

“This will help ensure a comprehensive and thorough investigation into the matter,” Razarudin said.