KOTA BHARU - The Kelantan state government does not recognize the recent appointment of Rohingya community leaders across various districts in the state, clarifying that the appointments were made without any official registration or regulatory approval.
Kelantan Local Government, Housing, Health, and Environment Committee Chairman Hilmi Abdullah stated that the appointments were internal initiatives organized entirely by the migrant community itself. Neither local municipal councils (PBT) nor the state administration were consulted.
"They took it upon themselves to make these appointments, which is no different from appointing a group leader for a camping trip," Hilmi told reporters on Wednesday.
"However, if left unchecked, this could become dangerous, as we fear it could mimic the structure of underworld secret societies," he warned, emphasising that the group remains completely unregistered.
The issue came to light after images went viral on Facebook showing members of the ethnic Rohingya community in Kelantan appointing district chiefs and presenting them with official-looking appointment certificates. The posts sparked widespread concern online, with netizens urging authorities to launch an immediate investigation.
Addressing the broader context of community gatherings, Hilmi noted that any formal assembly or organized activity involving large groups must comply with the Peaceful Assembly Act 2012.
Under the law, organisers are legally required to notify the respective District Police Chief at least five days before an event, specifying both the venue and time.
"They must apply for a permit with the police. The District Police Chief will then impose appropriate conditions and notify local residents to check for any public objections. If there are no objections, they may proceed with the assembly," he explained.
He added that failing to notify the authorities about such structural movements only fuels public anxiety and suspicion among local communities. He noted, however, that traditional gatherings for religious purposes, weddings, funerals, and cultural festivals are legally exempt from this notification rule under the Act.