by GLORIA HARRY BEATTY

A TOTAL of 662 children have been rescued from Global Ikhwan Services and Business Holdings Sdn Bhd (GISBH) charity homes, according to Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil (picture).

During a Cabinet meeting today, Fahmi mentioned that the Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri informed that the rescued children have now received a court order for protection. They were saved through a series of raids conducted by the Royal Malaysia Police.

“But we did not discuss other topics, such as the issue of fatwa at the state level or whether the teachings of this group are heretical; however, we can refer to statements or fatwas from the mufti.

“There are a few muftis that have issued fatwa in which the teachings mentioned have been confirmed to be heresy,” he told reporters during a press conference at the Ministry of Communications, Putrajaya, today.

Concurrently, Fahmi said further information on the issue should be referred to the minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Dr Mohd Na’im Mokhtar.

Meanwhile, he announced that the issue regarding the dual burden of malnutrition, especially among children, was discussed during the Cabinet meeting which was chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.

“The Cabinet has received the latest report on efforts and strategic plans, but there are several matters that the prime minister (PM) has requested to be reviewed before a full announcement regarding the national strategic plan to combat the dual burden of malnutrition among children,” said Fahmi.

He mentioned that there will be another parliamentary session on Oct 14, which he hoped would continue its discussion on the topic, including several other matters, particularly in relation to the Health and Education Ministries.

“Several initiatives have been considered. Previously, we had a food programme, and this was also raised in discussions regarding the different school sessions, both morning and afternoon.

“Therefore, we are not just looking at one session; we want to take a comprehensive view. This matter is very important and close to the PM’s heart, and I hope that by the time of this (upcoming) parliamentary session, we will see some positive developments, particularly in managing these issues,” he said.