The firm, Global Ikhwan Services and Business Holdings (GISBH) owns supermarkets, mini-markets, bakeries, 120 restaurants and other businesses in Malaysia, the Middle East, Europe and China, according to a 2022 report.

In a statement on Facebook today, religious affairs minister Na’im Mokhtar urged the public to report suspicious activities that could potentially distort religious beliefs, Bernama reported.

They should file complaints with the police, Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission and state religious authorities for further investigation, he said.

Na’im said Jakim would fully cooperate with the police and state Islamic religious authorities in the investigation.

He had previously confirmed holding an engagement session with representatives of GISBH following allegations of deviant teachings, exploiting religion and children to solicit donations and conduct business.

An FMT profile of the company in 2022 quoted the chief executive, Lokman Hakim Pfordten, as saying that the company had discarded its former image as the business wing of Al-Arqam and is currently positioned as a multinational company.