**SINGAPORE:** In a landmark ruling, a 67-year-old man has been found guilty of disseminating false religious doctrines that allowed for gambling and "spiritual marriages" among Muslims—a decision that has sparked widespread outrage and concern within the community. The State Courts delivered their verdict on Friday, April 4, against Mohd Razif Radi, who has never been officially recognized as an Islamic or Quranic teacher.

The court concluded that Razif had violated the Administration of Muslim Law Act by promoting teachings that contradict fundamental Islamic laws. From 2004 to 2020, he propagated three major heretical beliefs: the permissibility of gambling, the validity of spiritual marriages between men and women without formal ceremonies, and his claim of being able to summon a spirit known as "Mbah," who he claimed was a descendant of the last prophet.

District Judge Shaiffudin Saruwan, in delivering the guilty verdict, emphasized that the testimony of the witnesses was credible and consistent. He noted that the Mufti of Singapore confirmed that Razif's teachings were indeed contrary to Islamic doctrine. The judge acknowledged the human tendency to forget details but firmly stated that this did not undermine the validity of the witnesses' accounts.

The prosecution's case was bolstered by various forms of corroborating evidence, including emails regarding religious classes and detailed notes on how to conduct a spiritual marriage. In stark contrast, the defence witnesses provided inconsistent statements, leading the judge to reject claims that the materials presented were simply fictional scripts for a television show.

The trial, which began in June 2024, included testimony from 20 witnesses, with a significant majority testifying against Razif. Due to a gag order, the identities of witnesses remain confidential.

Razif operated a café where he allegedly ran an unregistered religious school, drawing in followers with his controversial teachings. Authorities initiated an investigation after the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (MUIS) filed a complaint against him in August 2021, raising alarms about his influence on the community.

As the case progresses, Razif's sentencing is scheduled for May 26, with potential penalties including a maximum of 12 months in prison, a fine up to S$2,000, or both. This verdict raises urgent questions about the regulation of religious teachings and the vigilance required to protect the integrity of religious beliefs in Singapore, a nation known for its diverse multicultural landscape. Community leaders are calling for more stringent actions against individuals who exploit faith for personal gain.