THE tahfiz centre implicated in a sodomy case in Kepong is operating without any approval from the authorities, said Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Mujahid Yusof Rawa, who was also shocked to learn that the victims were still taking lessons there.

The centre, Pusat Tahfiz Darus As-Syabab, does not have operating licences from Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) and the Federal Territory Islamic Religious Department (Jawi).

This was confirmed by the minister who visited the centre today.

The centre is in the news after its 30-year-old principal and owner was arrested for allegedly sodomising nine students aged between 11 and 16.

Mujahid said the owner’s wife had revealed that the centre was registered with Jawi but had not been approved for operations.

“If the tahfiz centre does not adhere to the procedures, it risks the safety and security of the 40 students who come here to take religious lessons,” he said.

The minister was also shocked when he was told that the sodomy victims were still studying at the centre.

“But I don’t want to go into that issue as the matter is before the court. However, the problem here seems to be the parents.

“It appears as though the parents are not bothered by what has happened here,” he said.

It is understood that Mujahid spoke to seven of the nine victims today. The other two had returned home.

He said the parents must be more responsible and take more interest in what’s happening to their children.

He also said the tahfiz centre lacked funds to operate and does not have enough teachers as well.

“I suggest to the parents to just take back their children. The government also offers registered tahfiz centres which are well run.” – September 24, 2018.