A 63-YEAR-OLD Malaysian female Islamic teacher (ustazah) and a 45-year-old self-employed man have come forward to describe being victimised by a loan shark syndicate, with victims collectively claiming losses of around RM10 million.
"Almighty God has destined that my fate be tested in this way, and I am striving to resolve the problem of being harassed by a loan shark after being forced to repay up to RM116,000, even though I initially only borrowed RM3,000,” the ustazah said at a press conference at the Malaysian Humanitarian Organisation (MHO) office today.
She explained that she initially believed she was borrowing from a licensed moneylender and had only signed documents inside her car, agreeing to pay 18 per cent interest per month.
"Moreover, the automatic teller machine (ATM) card was also in their possession, but shortly afterwards, upon discovering that they were misusing the card for money laundering, I immediately cancelled it," she added.
Despite paying over RM90,000, she said the debt remains unresolved, and she continues to receive threats, including threats to set her house on fire and to throw eggs at her property.
Hanizal Mad Dali, 45, described a similar ordeal.
He initially discovered a loan offer on Facebook, which appeared to be from a bank, and borrowed RM9,000.
"I am now burdened with repaying RM100,000," he said.
He added that the exorbitant interest rates and relentless harassment forced him to move after receiving threats of arson, the kidnapping of his child, and having paint thrown at him.
Hanizal further revealed that his family members have also been targeted, with personal identification documents posted in their neighbourhood and their workplaces and children’s schools disclosed.
"My family's life is now gripped by fear due to the threats we have received," he said. - November 3, 2025
