KOTA BARU: The state government has urged the police to conduct a thorough investigation into allegations that several Malaysian influencers and cosmetic product founders have been using charitable donations to religious schools in southern Thailand as a channel for money laundering.
Kelantan Islamic Development, Dakwah, Information and Regional Relations committee chairman Mohd Asri Mat Daud said firm action must be taken if any Malaysian is proven to be involved.
“If there are individuals involved and they have been identified, then the police must investigate and arrest them so they do not tarnish the reputation of others who are genuinely sincere in helping.
“Many Kelantanese are kind-hearted and easily moved to assist those who seek help, this is a well-known trait,” he said.
He said the allegations originated in Thailand and did not reflect a problem occurring in Kelantan, although there were claims that some parties from the state may have influence in the matter.
“The first thing that must be determined is whether the person is truly involved in laundering the funds.
“For a long time, information received by the government shows that many wealthy individuals and businessmen from Kelantan are courteous and sincere in donating to tahfiz schools and pondok institutions, not only in Thailand but also in Cambodia and elsewhere.
“We do not want the actions of one individual involved in money laundering to tarnish the names of many others who are sincere and good.
“That is why the government, the police and the media must be fair and meticulous when dealing with this issue,” he added.
Asri was commenting on a statement by Narathiwat Islamic Religious Council deputy president Abdul Aziz Mamat, who disclosed that several Malaysian influencers and cosmetic product founders were allegedly using charitable contributions to Islamic schools in southern Thailand as part of a money-laundering scheme.
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd
