Permanent resident status of resort owner forfeited immediately

The permanent resident (PR) status of the owner of a resort in Kampung Sedili Besar in Kota Tinggi, Johor was revoked immediately for not respecting the sensitivities of Muslims in Malaysia.

Home Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said this was the first time the government had taken such stringent action.

"The action was taken after the ministry, through the National Registration Department (JPN), carried out an indepth study on the resort owner as the status is only a facility given by the government, and not a privilege," he told reporters during an Aidilfitri celebration here today.

On Aug 10, the 45-year-old man had allowed the surau at the resort to be used for a religious ceremony by non-Muslims.

Ahmad Zahid said the government had the right to do so, especially on individuals who acted outside of the law, especially involving the sanctity of Islam.

"I hope those holding permanent resident status in the country will use this issue as a lesson and not misuse the facilities given, via, the generosity of the Malaysian Government.

"The man (resort owner) was not sensitive to Muslims in Malaysia as a whole, and in fact, had disparaged Islam as the official religion of this nation," he said.

The minister said, followers of Buddhism who had used the surau, had initially sought permission to use a hall at the resort.

"Unfortunately, the hall had been booked and the resort owner allowed them to use the surau. By right, as a Muslim, he should have been aware of the consequences of his action.

"The stringent action was taken because it touched on religious sensitivities...that is all. A similar action, too, will be taken if other religions are insulted," he added.

Bernama understands that with the revocation of his permanent resident status, the man, who has a family, is no longer allowed to work or own commercial assets in the country, and must get a work permit or have a Malaysian partner.

During the event, Ahmad Zahid, in his speech, suggested that a body be set up as an umbrella for the numerous drug enforcement agencies in Malaysia.

He also appealed to the corporate sector to be actively involved again to help in drug rehabilitation and prevention activities.

Ahmad Zahid also announced that the Al-Bukhary Foundation had channelled RM5 million for non-governmental organisations involved in efforts to tackle the drug problem in the country.