BUKIT MERTAJAM: A notice to provide a statement has been issued to a group of Muslim individuals detained at a health centre on Jalan Raja Laut, Kuala Lumpur, on Friday (Nov 28) night, following suspicion of involvement in immoral activities.
Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Islamic Affairs), Datuk Dr Mohd Na'im Mohktar, confirmed that the notice was issued for further investigation in accordance with the relevant laws.
"I take the detention of 203 men, aged 19 to 60, very seriously. This case involves immoral activities that contradict religious values, societal ethics, and the laws of the country,” he said in a statement on Saturday night (Nov 29).
The operation, named 'Ops Songsang,' was conducted by the police, together with other agencies, including the Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL), the Health Ministry, and the Federal Territory Islamic Religious Department (Jawi).
The raid, which occurred around 8pm on Friday night, revealed that 17 of those arrested were civil servants, including surgeons, deputy public prosecutors, teachers, and enforcement personnel.
Kuala Lumpur deputy police chief Datuk Mohd Azani Omar said surveillance on the two-storey premises had been carried out for two weeks, based on public information.
The operation uncovered that the premises were involved in activities linked to same-sex relationships.
Mohd Na'im added that the investigation was conducted under the Syariah Criminal Offences (Federal Territories) Act 1997, including provisions on sodomy and attempted sodomy.
The investigation revealed that the premises operated under a legitimate licence as a gym, sauna, and fitness centre but was suspected of promoting activities that violated both the law and societal ethics.
As a result, DBKL is in the process of revoking the premises’ operating licence.
"The involvement of civil servants is deeply troubling, and this highlights the need for stronger measures to address ethical and integrity issues within the public service," Mohd Na'im added.
He expressed full support for the enforcement actions and stated that a thorough investigation would be conducted. The findings would be submitted to the relevant authorities for further action, including possible prosecution.
Mohd Na'im also instructed Jakim, Jawi, and other agencies to strengthen prevention and ethics programmes, particularly for youth and professionals and urban communities.
"I urge the public not to normalise immorality or take lightly the issue of moral decay, which can harm future generations and undermine the nation’s dignity.
"We aim to build a progressive Malaysia with strong values and high moral standards. May Allah protect us from moral corruption and guide us back to our natural values," he said. - Bernama
