PUTRAJAYA: The Malaysian Islamic Development Department (Jakim) is not responsible for law enforcement involving GISB Holdings Sdn Bhd (GISB), the department said.
Jakim's Religious Service Personnel Association (PKPU) president, Colonel Datuk Mohd Ajib Ismail, said that Jakim, as a federal religious agency under the Prime Minister's Department, coordinates Islamic affairs but has no enforcement powers.
He responded to statements by academic Dr Abu Hafiz Salleh Huddin, which he said "caused confusion and fostered negative perceptions" about Jakim's role.
"The statement has misrepresented Jakim's role and function. PKPU feels it necessary to clarify that these views are inaccurate and do not reflect Jakim's true responsibilities," he said.
Mohd Ajib added that Jakim operates under the mandate of the National Council for Islamic Religious Affairs (MKI) and reports to the Cabinet.
"Although not an enforcement body, Jakim collaborates with agencies such as the police and state religious authorities to ensure legal compliance in Islamic matters.
"Jakim consistently seeks legal advice and works with enforcement authorities to ensure that all actions follow legal procedures, particularly when state jurisdiction is involved," he added.
PKPU, Mohd Ajib said, remains confident in Jakim's professional and transparent leadership under Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Dr Mohd Na'im Mokhtar.
"Jakim's mission to uphold Islamic faith, sharia, and morals will continue to strengthen through close cooperation with relevant agencies," Mohd Ajib concluded.
Previously, Abu Hafiz had called for a restructuring of Jakim, citing delays in addressing allegations of abuse linked to GISB welfare homes.
On Sept 11, police rescued 402 children from 20 homes connected to GISB during a raid, leading to 171 arrests.
GISB Holdings Sdn Bhd has since denied the allegations and threatened legal action against those who defame the company.