KUALA LUMPUR: The police have imposed a blanket ban on programmes linked to Muslim preacher Dr Zakir Naik in the whole country for security reasons.
Royal Malaysia Police head of corporate communications Datuk Asmawati Ahmad said yesterday the order was issued as these events can create a tense atmosphere in the multiracial society in the country.
“All state police chiefs have been instructed to advise those who may organise programmes involving Zakir to stop holding such events.
“All activities involving Zakir are banned. This directive took effect on Aug 15,” she said in a statement.
Zakir is facing a police investigation under Section 504 of the Penal Code for intentional insult with intent to provoke a breach of the peace, after 115 reports were received against him.
He has been called up twice to Bukit Aman to have his statement recorded, the first time for five hours last Friday and the second time for 10 hours from Monday afternoon up to early yesterday.
The preacher from India, who is a permanent resident in Malaysia, is alleged to have made controversial remarks against Malaysian Hindus and Chinese during a talk in Kota Bharu on Aug 3, prompting calls for him to be deported to India.
Zakir has been wanted by Indian authorities since 2016 for alleged money laundering and inciting extremism through hate speeches. – Bernama
