Idris Ami, 60, a forklift driver, entered the plea after the charges were read out before judge Zulfikri Yasoa.

Idris is accused of teaching false doctrines to two men, aged 42 and 46, by claiming to be a prophet (messenger for this era) at a house in Kuala Pilah in October last year. He is also accused of claiming to be in possession of the spirits of prophets from Adam to Muhammad.

The charges carry a maximum penalty of three years’ jail, a fine of up to RM5,000, or both.

Zulfikri set bail at RM8,000 with four sureties. Idris was prohibited from leaving Malaysia and must report to the state’s chief religious officer every month. The trial has been scheduled for Nov 19.

A 42-year-old local woman, who is alleged to be Idris’s right-hand person, was released on bail of RM4,000 with one surety.

Negeri Sembilan Islamic affairs enforcement head Ahmad Zaki Hamzah told reporters that the pair were arrested this morning in Muadzam Shah, Pahang while travelling to Terengganu.

“We have investigated information related to a new doctrine known as the Cahaya teaching, which took place at a house in Kuala Pilah. It is believed that these teachings had been propagated for over a year in the district, and some followers have already left the doctrine,” he said.