THE Selangor Islamic Religious Department (JAIS) has begun an official investigation into a married couple alleged to be behind the controversial eHATI marital motivation programme, which has come under scrutiny over claims of inappropriate conduct and elements of religious deviance.
Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs), Datuk Mohd Na’im Mokhtar, confirmed that JAIS has received a formal complaint and will summon the couple to provide statements to its Enforcement Division.
“I am aware of public concerns regarding the approach used in eHATI, which has caused considerable unease,” he said in a statement to *Berita Harian*.
“As such, I have instructed the Director-General of the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM), Datuk Dr Sirajuddin Suhaimee, to initiate cooperation with JAIS to address this matter.”
He added that further action will be determined following the conclusion of the investigation.
The case has attracted widespread attention following media reports that the eHATI programme, which promotes marital and women’s self-help themes, allegedly contains elements of deviant spiritual teachings. Former participants have taken to social media, particularly Facebook, to claim that the couple used the guise of family happiness and love guidance to propagate misleading doctrines.
One former member alleged that the programme referenced non-Islamic sources, including Hindu texts, and that teachings were disseminated through private Telegram channels.
When asked about claims that similar complaints were raised as early as last year, Mohd Na’im said, “I have been informed that there may have been reports received since last year, but I cannot verify that at this time. I only became aware of eHATI myself the day before yesterday.”
He urged members of the public to report any activity containing suspicious or misleading religious elements directly to state religious authorities to ensure prompt action is taken.
Mohd Na’im also advised couples facing marital difficulties to consult officially recognised professionals before participating in any counselling or motivational programmes.
“I understand couples may seek expert advice when facing difficulties, and that in doing so they may find groups offering hope for a resolution,” he said.
“There is nothing wrong with looking for help, but I advise the public to ensure that any group or programme consulted is recognised by the authorities.”
He further encouraged participants who suspect questionable methods or teachings in any such programme to file formal complaints, assuring that action will be taken.
“God willing, once reports are submitted, I will ensure JAKIM collaborates with state religious authorities to act swiftly so that these deviant elements do not persist and continue to unsettle the community,” he said. - July 13, 2025
