Deputy religious affairs minister rejects calls to resign over New Age issue

Deputy Religious Affairs Minister Marhamah Rosli faced demands to resign after a screenshot of a 2019 Facebook post she had shared was circulated. The allegations linked her to New Age teachings, witchcraft, magic, and the use of charms. Marhamah insisted she would only resign if it was proven in court that she had led people astray.

She responded to the allegations after a recent event. Marhamah had previously denied the claims, giving those spreading them 24 hours to retract and apologize, threatening legal action if they failed to do so. She was subsequently summoned by the Islamic Development Department (Jakim) to explain the situation to a Jakim panel of experts and authorities.

Jakim Director-General Sirajuddin Suhaimee stated that Marhamah was issued several reprimands, advisories, and guidelines following the meeting, including regarding the content of her programs and the approaches used.