Former massage therapist faces trial over accusations of promoting forbidden practices in Islam.
Mohd Razif Radi, a 67-year-old former massage therapist, is currently on trial for allegedly teaching a deviant Islamic doctrine. Razif is accused of promoting ideas that gambling is permissible in Islam and that spiritual marriages—marriages without formal proceedings—are valid. Additionally, he is accused of claiming to have the ability to summon a spirit known as “Mbah,” purportedly linked to Prophet Muhammad’s lineage.
During his trial on November 4, 2024, Razif denied all the charges, insisting that he never conducted religious classes and that his discussions with others were purely informal exchanges of ideas. He also rejected claims that he took on the role of “Mbah” and explained that the term “Mbah” is simply a Javanese word for an elder, similar to “grandfather” or “uncle.”
Razif also denied advising others that gambling proceeds could be “cleansed,” a claim made by a prosecution witness. He admitted to having engaged in gambling activities, such as 4-D and Toto, but maintained that he never advocated for such practices within an Islamic context.
The Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (Muis) has condemned the teachings attributed to Razif, stating that gambling is forbidden in Islam, and that spiritual marriages lack essential elements like witnesses and dowries. Razif, who has no formal religious teaching credentials, emphasized his commitment to Islam, stating that he prays five times a day and fulfills other religious obligations.
