World · Malaysia Bureau
Former Islamic school principal remanded over sexual abuse allegations
Police have remanded a former headmaster of a Quranic memorisation institute in Dungun for five days following allegations of sexual abuse involving three former students. The alleged offences occurred in 2025.
LSN Malaysia ·
The ex-principal of the maahad tahfiz, or Islamic boarding school, was detained on Monday as investigations into the sexual abuse allegations continue. The three complainants are former pupils of the institution located in Dungun, a district in Terengganu state.
Police confirmed that the remand period has been extended to five days to allow investigators sufficient time to gather evidence and conduct further interviews related to the case. The detention follows a formal report lodged by the victims with the Royal Malaysian Police.
The allegations have prompted authorities to review safeguarding protocols at Islamic educational institutions in the state. Terengganu police said they are pursuing all leads and have urged anyone with additional information about the incident to come forward.
The case highlights ongoing concerns about child protection in residential educational settings across Malaysia. Police have not ruled out additional charges as the investigation progresses. The school's management has not issued a public statement regarding the allegations.