We were threatened, says Sunni head of group accused of spreading Shia Islam

The pack of Ramadan goodies distributed to the public by the ‘Who Is Hussain’ group. (Facebook pic)

PETALING JAYA: Members of a group which distributed leaflets on the grandson of the Prophet in Kuala Lumpur have denied accusations that they were out to spread Shia Islam, a day after police warned them of action.

The “Who Is Husain?” group also told FMT that they had received death threats.

Hussain refers to the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, who is also a central figure in Shia Islam, which authorities in Malaysia label as deviant.

But the group’s head who only wanted to be known as Natasha said it was not a religious organisation.

“Our organisation is a charity organisation which wants to bring about positive change. We have nothing to do with religion. Our focus is on the environment, poverty, homelessness, sanitation and water,” she told FMT.

She said group members had distributed Ramadan goodies to members of the public, including dates, drinks, rosary beads and a flyer on the organisation.

Natasha, who said she is a Sunni Muslim, said a Facebook group had later accused them of spreading Shia Islam.

“There are people who are misinformed and who are deliberately trying to manipulate the situation,” she said.

Yesterday, top cop Abdul Hamid Bador said police would work with religious authorities to stop the group.

“This is irresponsible and goes against Sunni Islam,” Hamid told reporters.

Natasha said the group should be treated fairly, adding that those who threatened them should also be investigated.

“We have lodged a police report on this matter and we hope the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission will also act against those threatening us.” - FMT