SEREMBAN: Several unregistered religious private schools, including those managed by Global Ikhwan Sdn Bhd (GISB), may be involved in issues related to the exploitation of children and teenagers, said Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun.
The Negri Sembilan Menteri Besar said this information was obtained from investigations carried out by the state Islamic Affairs Department (JHEAINS) following complaints from the public and relevant parties.
He said there were three or four schools, madrasahs, or welfare centres in Seremban, Kuala Pilah, and Nilai that are under investigation and surveillance.
"We are conducting a thorough investigation through JHEAINS into schools that are not registered with the state Education Department even before these (exploitation) allegations arose.
"Currently, we only suspect a few schools, including those managed by GISB, as there is a possibility that certain parties are using different names.
"However, JHEAINS is working to identify these schools or welfare centres, but the investigation is still ongoing."
He was speaking to reporters after officiating at the Negri Sembilan State Contingent Flag Handover Ceremony for the Sarawak 2024 Malaysia Para Games at Klana Resort today.
Aminuddin was commenting on reports that the police had successfully rescued 402 children and teenagers aged between one and 17, who were suspected victims of exploitation at 18 welfare homes in Selangor and two in Negeri Sembilan during 'Op Global' yesterday.
Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Razarudin Husain had said the victims allegedly suffered punishment with heated metal objects and inappropriate touching under the guise of religious medical treatment.
Meanwhile, Aminuddin said JHEAINS was gathering information on the operations and activities of these institutions.
"We are collecting information on several schools across the state, including religious schools, madrasahs, and so forth.
"We do not want any teaching and education that contradicts the teachings of the Ahli Sunnah Wal Jamaah.
"The investigation is ongoing, and so far, no institution or number of schools have been ordered to close," he said.
He advised parents to send their children to mainstream schools, which also offer religious education.
He noted that in Negri Sembilan, there were many regular schools providing comprehensive religious education, such as Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Agama Pedas in Rembau.
"Islamic studies are taught, along with related co-curricular activities. Parents should choose registered mainstream schools to facilitate monitoring and prevent their children from becoming victims of unhealthy activities," he said.