He said that although Jakim had the right to recall him since Zamihan was originally an officer with the department who was transferred to the Home Ministry, his sudden transfer back to Jakim seemed politically motivated.
“Zamihan has made numerous contributions in his effort to rehabilitate detainees involved in terrorism and extremism as well as those involved in religious cults.
“He also contributed in the effort to eradicate Shiite and Wahabi teachings in the country by briefing the Conference of Malay Rulers on its dangers,” he was quoted as saying.
According to Mustapha, Zamihan also enjoyed a good relationship with officers of the Royal Malaysian Police.
Mustapha said Jakim had erred in asking for Zamihan’s transfer back to their department, alleging it was more an issue of wanting to protect the interests of certain individuals who want him silenced.
“The veterans are worried this phenomenon (terrorism and extremism) might progress and become an incurable disease due to people’s ignorance of their own faith.
“The veterans would like to warn the government that if this disease is not tackled, Malaysians will face even bigger problems which will lead to their faith being corrupted and this country becoming a den for extremist movements.”
Zamihan is not new to speaking his mind and was in the news recently after he challenged Dr Mohd Asri Zainul Abidin to a debate, saying the latter should resign from his post as Perlis Mufti if he came out the loser.
The challenge was made after Mohd Asri accused Zamihan of influencing the decision of the Johor Islamic Religious Council (MAIJ) to bar him from speaking in the state, a claim he has vehemently denied.