Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia - A man who reportedly claims to be “God” is liable to face criminal charges if his teachings are found to be seditious and cause disunity among the people.
Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak said that although the Penal Code did not touch on religious practices, action could be taken against such people if they were found to have committed offences under the country’s other laws.
The Deputy Prime Minister added: “We have laws under the Penal Code to act against deviants of religions other than Islam.”
“If their teachings are found to be seditious and cause disunity, we can take action under criminal laws,” he said here yesterday.
Najib was commenting on a report in a Malay daily that a Johor man in his 40s was spreading teachings that denounced Islam, Christianity and Hinduism.
The man, a motivational speaker, has drawn many followers, who allegedly included professionals, those holding the title of “Datuk” and at least a member of the royalty.
The man and his wife were allegedly emulating the Sky Kingdom cult that was founded by Ariffin Mohamad, also known as Ayah Pin, to start a new religious order.