AFP - 28 July 2001

Malaysian students strip-searched over 'black metal cult alert

Schools in some Malaysian states are strip-searching students in a move to identify followers of a "black metal" cult which dabbles in the occult, reports said Thursday.

The Star newspaper said body checks were being conducted on students in the northern state of Kedah.

State religious affairs committee chairman Fadzil Hanafi was quoted as saying they would focus on students in religious and boarding schools who were the target of the cult.

"Those conducting body checks will watch out for tattoos or other symbols linked to the occult group," Fadzil said.

More than 50 students from 12 schools have been identified as members of the group, which is said to use heavy metal music to attract recruits, to practise satanic rituals and to advocate free love.

Fadzil said spot checks would be carried out in public areas including shopping malls and students caught loafing would face strict action such as having their hair cropped.

In neighbouring Perlis state, authorities had identified 20 students who were on the verge of joining the cult.

Perlis chief minister Shahidan Kassim said the students had performed poorly in school and wanted to "escape from the realities of life." Investigations were being carried out in another 20 schools.

The Sun newspaper said some parents in Perak state have cried foul over strip searches conducted by schools.

Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad has called for a special cabinet session on August 8 to discuss the involvement of youths in undesirable activities, including the black metal cult.