A Malaysian woman recently exposed the controversial aspects of a family motivational programme held in Shah Alam, claiming that the event allegedly included elements of heresy.
She further alleged that attendees were invited to participate in an inappropriate dance led by the female organiser.
The event, which took place last year, was reportedly targeted at divorced women or those experiencing marital dissatisfaction. In a lengthy Facebook post, the woman claimed that the organiser and other high-ranking members of the group, known as Cleopatra, removed their clothing and began dancing on stage.
Attendees were reportedly shocked and invited to join, though participation was not mandatory. The woman also alleged that participants were served a chocolate drink called Piya, though its contents remain unknown.
“Rebirth” ritual
The event allegedly concluded with a ritual described as a “sacred bath,” symbolising a form of rebirth. Attendees were asked to lie down and were “cleansed” with wet towels from head to toe, then wrapped in cloth and later unwrapped to signify the completion of the ritual.
The woman likened the practice to those found in New Age movements.
The Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM) have acknowledged the matter and released an official statement last night (July 11), condemning the event as being contrary to Islamic teachings.
According to JAKIM, the programme encouraged women to “love themselves” by rejecting marriage and embracing personal autonomy, including controversial views on sexuality.
“The habit of relying on sexual elements such as masturbation is against Islamic teachings,” the statement read.
You can read JAKIM’s full statement here.
Also read: “Men should look like men” – JAKIM Responds After Male Influencers Seen Cross-Dressing at an Event
