'Sacred sex' Muslim group probed

2012-01-26 13:36

Kuala Lumpur - Malaysian authorities said on Thursday they were investigating whether a Muslim group violated religious laws with a morality campaign that describes the Prophet Muhammad as a role model for "sacred sex".

The group that calls itself the Obedient Wives Club is planning private talks for hundreds of its members in the campaign centred around the prophet, who is thought to have married about a dozen women in his lifetime, including widows in need of protection.

The campaign, which is scheduled to run for nearly two weeks, bears a title that calls the prophet a "role model for sacred sex" and urges members to follow his example and avoid sexual sins.

On Wednesday, Islamic affairs officials broke up a gathering linked to the campaign at a house in northern Perak state, said one of the officials, Azaruddin Saarani.

Authorities seized posters at the home and plan to question club members to find out whether they broke any laws, Azaruddin said. He declined to elaborate on what charges they could face.

Club members contacted by telephone refused to comment.

Ridiculed

It is the latest controversy to hit the club, which was formed last year to advocate subservience to husbands.

Most of the club's estimated 800 members are in polygamous marriages, saying the practice helps men avoid committing adultery. Islam allows men to take up to four wives.

The club has faced ridicule by many Malaysians, who say it's an embarrassment for a modern country where women hold prominent posts in the government and private sector.

The club published a book called Islamic Sex last year on how couples should physically and spiritually approach sex. Authorities later banned it, warning it could cause confusion about acceptable religious teachings.

 

- AP