In a statement issued through his lawyer, Akberdin Abdul Kadir, Zakir labelled the claims as “fake news” and “absolute rubbish,” stressing that there was no truth in them whatsoever.

Akberdin confirmed to local media that the preacher was in good health and dismissed the reports of him receiving treatment at a private hospital in the Klang Valley. He said the rumours were deliberately spread by individuals attempting to damage Zakir’s reputation because of his popularity and influence.

Dr Zakir, who initially trained as a medical doctor before leaving the profession in 1991 to pursue full-time preaching, has long been a polarising figure. After facing legal issues in India, he settled in Malaysia, where his presence has continued to spark both support and controversy.

In 2019, Zakir was at the centre of public outrage after comments perceived as offensive to Chinese and Indian Malaysians. He referred to Chinese Malaysians as “guests” and questioned the loyalty of Indian Malaysians, sparking over 100 police reports and a temporary ban on his public speaking.

Despite repeated controversies, Zakir Naik remains a highly influential preacher in Malaysia and in many English-speaking countries. However, he has also been barred from entering several nations over concerns about his rhetoric.