Malaysia authorities investigate viral video of alleged religious ritual

The Selangor Islamic Religious Department (JAIS) has launched an investigation into a viral video allegedly showing a Muslim individual performing non-Islamic religious rituals. The investigation is being conducted under Sections 4 and 10 of the Syariah Criminal Enactment (Selangor) 1995, which cover acts that show worship in a manner contrary to Islamic law or cause the religion to be viewed with contempt.

JAIS Director Datuk Mohd Shahzihan Ahmad stated that authorities have not yet confirmed if the incident occurred during the Thaipusam celebrations at Batu Caves. He noted that the department is investigating the possibility that the footage was manipulated using image superimposition or artificial intelligence (AI).

The Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs) is also reportedly taking action alongside relevant authorities regarding the spread of the recordings.