Minister: Probe alleged Rukun Negara insult in viral video

KUALA LUMPUR: Police and the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) have been urged to investigate a stage performance video containing elements deemed insulting to the Malay Rulers and the Rukun Negara.

National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang said appropriate action should be taken in the event of any violation of the law, with the investigation taking into consideration relevant legal provisions, including the Penal Code, Communications and Multimedia Act 1998, Sedition Act 1948 and other relevant laws.

He said firm action was crucial to remind citizens that freedom comes with the responsibility to respect the law, national institutions and social harmony.

"Rukun Negara is not merely a pledge recited at official functions. It is the national ideology and philosophy, and a guide in building a united nation.

"It was proclaimed on Aug 31, 1970, with the primary goal of forging strong unity among Malaysians," he said in a statement shared on Facebook today.

Earlier, a video posted on Instagram by 'The Fever Kinetic Theatre' went viral after it was found to contain elements deemed insulting to the institution of the Malay Rulers, Malaysia and the Rukun Negara.

Aaron described the performance as irresponsible, excessive and unacceptable.

He said that freedom of artistic expression and speech should not be used as an excuse to belittle national institutions, provoke or engage in actions that could potentially undermine social harmony.

"There is no room for any party to make light of matters concerning the institution of the Malay Rulers, national sovereignty and the foundations that shape life in our country.

"Malaysia is a country that practises Parliamentary Democracy and Constitutional Monarchy, with His Majesty the Yang di-Pertuan Agong as the Head of State," he said.

Aaron urged all parties, including artists, content creators and social media users, to exercise their freedom responsibly.

Meanwhile, in a separate post, Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs) Dr Zulkifli Hasan said the performance video constituted a breach of proper conduct and social wrongdoing that undermined harmony.

He said the organisers should issue a public apology, while the authorities must conduct a thorough investigation and take firm legal action without compromise against any party that insulted the foundations of the country.

"Artistic platforms should uplift the soul and unite the people, not divide them. Stop exploiting moral values for cheap popularity, and focus on building the nation based on truth, propriety, and strong moral and religious values," he said. — BERNAMA