Nik Nazmi confirms detained by Jais for alleged khalwat

Bersama co-leader Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad has confirmed that he was one of the two people detained by the Selangor Islamic religious department (Jais) in a suspected khalwat (close proximity) case in Petaling Jaya on Thursday.

In a statement, Nik Nazmi apologised to his wife, their families and others affected by the incident, describing it as a lapse in judgment.

He said he and his colleague had initially held a discussion at their studio in Brickfields, Kuala Lumpur, before deciding to continue it in Petaling Jaya to review materials related to a project.

“When Jais officers arrived, only the woman and I were present. I acknowledge that this was an offence,” he said.

“As I also informed the officers, we did not engage in any immoral acts.”

The former Setiawangsa MP also apologised to Bersama, saying the incident had affected the party and disappointed its members and supporters. He said he would accept whatever decision the party made.

Jais director Shahzihan Ahmad yesterday said two people, including a public figure, had been detained in the Petaling district at about 6pm on Thursday to assist in investigations under Section 29 of the Syariah Criminal Offences (Selangor) Enactment 1995.

He said those convicted could face a maximum fine of RM3,000, imprisonment of up to two years, or both.