KANGAR: The Perlis Fatwa Committee has declared that the beliefs and teachings of GISB Holdings (GISBH) are deviant and unIslamic.
This makes Perlis the first state to declare the organisation as a deviant group.
Perlis mufti Datuk Dr Mohd Asri Zainul Abidin said that the fatwa was issued after the committee received compelling evidence.
He said that the "batiniah" (esoteric) elements in GISBH's teachings are a continuation of the deviant al-Arqam teachings.
The committee concluded that GISBH fosters a cult-like reverence for its leaders, equating them with the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) and attributing divine-like knowledge to them.
This, he added, leads to extreme fanaticism, where followers obey leaders even when their actions contradict the Quran and Sunnah.
Mohd Asri said that GISBH blindly follows its leaders, often seeking excessive blessings from them and justifying wrongful actions by invoking names like Imam Mahdi and miracles of saints.
They also believe their deceased leaders remain alive and can offer guidance, creating new religious rulings that contradict Islamic law on prayer, marriage, and transactions.
After reviewing GISBH's business practices, the committee found its economic model inconsistent with true Islamic principles, citing oppression and exploitation of members for the leaders' benefit.
Consequently, all teachings and activities related to GISBH are prohibited, and the committee urges the Muslim community to assist former members wishing to leave.
Zakat funds may be used for their rehabilitation, including educational support, legal assistance, and efforts to purify their faith.
Mohd Asri said schools adhering to true Ahli Sunnah Wal Jamaah teachings should help educate the children of former members and asked private organisations to provide job opportunities.
He called on the entire Muslim community to positively support former GISBH members in their recovery and to ensure they do not revert to deviant teachings.