626) THE HAND THAT IS NOT TO BE: BUSINESSWOMAN FALLS VICTIM TO SHAM MARRIAGE - NEW STRAITS TIMES - 14/12/2024

KUALA LUMPUR: What was supposed to be the most cherished moment in life turned into a nightmare for a businesswoman when she learned that she was not only a victim of a marriage syndicate, but her marriage to her "Datuk Seri" husband was also a sham.

The woman known only as Nor, who is in her 40s with one child, now finds herself at a loss over her future after getting married in a "village ceremony" in the northern region of the country.

Nor recounted how she met her husband during a business transaction in 2019.

"I thought my wedding would be like anyone else's. Although I was to be the second wife, I imagined there would be a proper ceremony. But there wasn't.

"The solemnisation was conducted at a village house without any celebration. When I questioned my husband, he assured me it was normal.

"My family and I were only served banana fritters, and the marriage official informed us that the marriage documents would be provided later," she said, adding that she had since lodged a report over the incident.

Nor said the happiness she hoped for never materialised, and she received financial support from her husband, who is also a politician, twice only before being dumped in 2021.

Distraught over her future and her child's welfare, she decided to take the matter to court.

It was only then she discovered in shock that her marriage certificate was invalid.

"My heart shattered upon realising I'd been deceived. Checks with the Religious Department in the northern region confirmed that the document was fake.

"My case is now in limbo. No action has been taken against my former husband. He should be held accountable, but instead, I'm left to bear the burden," she said, adding that she also filed a complaint with the Malaysian Muslim Consumers Association (PPIM).

Nor said after consulting officers at the religious office, she was advised to obtain a marriage verification from the court. Unfortunately, the marriage official and witnesses could not be traced.

"I was informed that the 'kadi' and 'witnesses' listed on the marriage certificate had no records with the religious office. That's why I've sought PPIM's assistance to highlight this issue," she said.

Article by: New Straits Times
THE HAND THAT IS NOT TO BE: BUSINESSWOMAN FALLS VICTIM TO SHAM MARRIAGE
https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2024/12/1148339/hand-not-be-businesswoman-falls-victim-sham-marriage