SHAH ALAM: Three members of Global Ikhwan Services and Business Holdings (GISB) made a plea to be allowed to continue carrying out their business activities.
Muhammad Syurahbil Amran, 36; Ummu Mubarokah Ashari, 30; and Khaulah Ashari, 38; made the plea, among other requests, through their lawyers at a press conference at a hotel here on Monday.
Lead counsel Datuk Rosli Kamaruddin, speaking on behalf of the trio, said GISBH appealed to the authorities to be allowed to continue with their businesses so they could earn a living.
"They are not involved in any illegal business activities," he said.
GISB also pleaded with the government not to use the Security Offences (Special Measures) 2012 (Sosma) to detain its members for investigation.
"If it is about deviant teachings and if there is a breach of akidah (religious guidelines), investigate and let the respective state religious authorities initiate action," Rosli said.
He added that GISB, its board of directors and company officials had cooperated with the authorities and will continue to do so in subsequent investigations by the police and other enforcement agencies.
Rosli added GISB also appealed to all non-governmental organisations, associations, politicians, professionals and individuals not appointed by the organisation to stop any polemic, debates or anything that can create discomfort among certain parties including the authorities.
"We are also reiterating that GISBH and its community are not terrorists. Let us allow the police and the government to complete their investigations.
"GISB's legal rights will be handled by the appointed legal team," said Rosli.
Rosli also said that GISB also appealed to the government and the authorities to allow its members to be involved in the welfare of their children who were currently under the care of the Welfare Department.
Meanwhile, Khaulah, who is a daughter of the outlawed Al-Arqam movement founder Ashaari Muhammad, said they were no longer involved in deviant teachings.
"We have pursued courses conducted by the religious authorities and are committed to no longer practice what was carried out in the past," she said.
MORE TO COME
