KUALA LUMPUR – The Selangor Islamic Religious Council (MAIS) has denied allegations that the detention of former Setiawangsa Member of Parliament Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad by the Selangor Islamic Religious Department (JAIS) last Thursday in connection with a khalwat (proximity) case was an act of persecution or a “frame-up”.
MAIS chairman Datuk Salehuddin Saidin said JAIS had acted based on an official complaint and in accordance with established legal procedures, without manipulating the situation to target any individual.
“The suggestion that the religious department was involved in manipulation or anything of the sort is entirely untrue. We have a legal obligation…when a complaint is lodged, we are required to conduct a thorough investigation.
“Rest assured, JAIS will carry out the investigation as diligently as possible, and if there is clear evidence, we will proceed with charges in court,” Bernama reported.
Salehuddin said the case was made public to clarify that Syariah laws were enforced fairly, regardless of the background or influence of the individual under investigation.
He urged the public to allow JAIS sufficient time and space to complete its investigation and refrain from speculation that could compromise the fairness of the legal process.
“We cannot pass judgment while the investigation is still incomplete. We must act fairly and carry out our duties in accordance with the regulations. If we were to act outside these regulations, we ourselves would be subject to accusations,” he said.
Earlier, Nik Nazmi confirmed in a statement that he was one of two individuals detained by the Selangor Islamic Religious Department (JAIS) on Thursday.
The former PKR vice-president, who now leads the newly formed party Bersama explained that the incident occurred after a meeting with friends at a studio in Brickfields, Kuala Lumpur.
According to Nik Nazmi, the group decided to move the session to Petaling Jaya to review materials linked to a project they were discussing. By the time JAIS officers raided the premises, only he and the woman were present at the location.
“I admit it was a mistake. As I also informed the JAIS officers, we certainly did not engage in any indecent act that could raise suspicion,” he said.
Expressing deep remorse, Nik Nazmi stated that he does not intend to prolong the controversy and tendered an unreserved apology to his family, the woman’s family, and all affected parties. – October 17, 2026