[ASKKPOP] JAWI decides against arresting the three Malay girls involved in the B1A4 'molestation' controversy

TheFederal Territories Islamic Department(JAWI) has stated that they will not be arresting the three Malaysian girls who were involved inB1A4's "molestation" controversy.

Earlier this January, B1A4 was accused by some international netizens andSukan Star TVof molesting three Malaysian fans wearingtudungs, or headscarves worn like the Islamichijabswhich symbolize modesty. A video of the members holding the girls' hands, hugging them, and giving them back hugs and forehead kisses circulated on the internet as some criticized the boy group for touching the girls inappropriately and the girls for allowing the physical contact to occur.

B1A4's representatives have sincecleared up the misunderstandingsaying that the clip was from a fanmeeting during which B1A4 gave out fanservice in the form of skinship. They stated that the girls gave prior consent.

However, theDepartment of Islamic Development Malaysia(JAKIM) and JAWI announced that they would investigate the issue and make sure thatTGM Eventsas well as the three Malay girls take responsibility for the incident. JAWI called the girls in to investigate them for public indecency. According to some media outlets, on January 12, JAWI went so far as to say that if the Malaysian girls did not turn themselves in, they would be issuing an arrest warrant. If arrested, the girls could face a fine up to 1,000 MYR (approx. $278 USD) or a maximum of six months in jail.

On January 19, however, JAWI stated that the girls did not turn themselves in but they would not be pursuing them. JAWI is unable to legally compel the girls to cooperate with the investigation and will simply let them go. This will come as good news toBANAs who have expressed their concern for their fellow B1A4 fans.