GISBH fails in bid to challenge Kedah fatwa declaring teachings deviant

PUTRAJAYA, September 11 — The High Court in Alor Setar has rejected GISB Holdings Sdn Bhd's (GISBH) attempt to challenge a fatwa issued by the Kedah State Fatwa Committee last year. The fatwa declared that the beliefs and teachings of GISBH members were deviant and against Islamic principles. Judge Evawani Farisyta Mohammad dismissed the application, saying the fatwa's content was governed by Sharia law, falling under the jurisdiction of the Sharia Court.

The fatwa, issued on February 12, 2022, was based on the Sultan of Kedah's prerogative powers and therefore unchallengeable through judicial review. GISBH and its CEO, Nasiruddin Mohd Ali, had sought an order of certiorari to quash the decision, claiming the fatwa had negatively impacted their operations and reputation. The Attorney General objected, stating the fatwa was not subject to judicial review or adjudication.