Threats aimed at mothers, children attendees of dog-touching event in Malaysia

Organiser Syed Azmi petting a dog while volunteers and pet owners (in red) look on during the “I Want To Touch A Dog” event on 19 Oct 2014, which has triggered an investigation from the Islamic Development Department. Unsatisfied with just t
Organiser Syed Azmi petting a dog while volunteers and pet owners (in red) look on during the “I Want To Touch A Dog” event on 19 Oct 2014, which has triggered an investigation from the Islamic Development Department. Unsatisfied with just targeting organiser Syed Azmi Alhabshi, the mob of angry netizens are now sending hate-filled messages to participants pictured in the 'I Want To Touch A Dog' (IWTTAD) event. -- PHOTO: THE STAR/ASIA NEWS NETWORK

PETALING JAYA (THE STAR/ASIA NEWS NETWORK) - Unsatisfied with just targeting organiser Syed Azmi Alhabshi, the mob of angry netizens are now sending hate-filled messages to participants pictured in the 'I Want To Touch A Dog' (IWTTAD) event.

"The threats are really bad. Through social media, text and phone calls.

"They seem to be targeting especially those women with kids," said a source who contacted The Star Online.

The source had requested The Star Online to remove photos from the event as the threats received had turned unbearable.

Organisers of the gathering had also pleaded with the media and attendees to remove images of people at the event, which was held at Central Park on Sunday.

"We, the team behind IWTTAD would like to humbly request all participants of the event, no matter what colour t-shirt you were wearing on that day to please take down any/or all photos that you might have put up.

"The decision to do so does not undermine anyone's views or thoughts on this matter," read the statement, which was posted on Thursday.

"We would like to express our sincerest apologies if any of the photos shared online or posted throughout the social media platforms- (related to this event) have offended others or caused harm of any sort," it said.

Syed Azmi had previously received death threats over his involvement in the event. He has since been uncontactable.

The National Fatwa Council Muzakarah decided on Thursday that touching and holding dogs is against mainstream Islamic doctrines in Malaysia, Bernama said.

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