Jakim urges halt to provocative content over controversial performance

KUALA LUMPUR: The Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (Jakim) has urged all parties involved to stop staging, broadcasting and disseminating content that is provocative, touches on religious and racial sensitivities or contravenes laws and social norms.

The call follows a viral video of a controversial performance allegedly containing elements insulting the monarchy, Malaysia and the Rukun Negara.

Jakim director-general Datuk Dr Sirajuddin Suhaimee said the department had lodged a complaint with the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) for further review and action.

"Jakim also urges all organisers and artists to act responsibly in producing and staging works, particularly when they involve religion, race and the institution of the monarchy," he said.

Earlier, media reported that National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang had urged the police and MCMC to conduct an immediate and thorough investigation into the performance video, which was alleged to contain elements insulting the monarchy, Malaysia and the Rukun Negara.

Aaron said the investigation should consider all relevant laws, including the Penal Code, Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 and Sedition Act 1948.

Sirajuddin said Jakim viewed the matter seriously as it was believed to touch on sensitivities surrounding Islam, race and national identity.

"Creativity and freedom of expression should be nurtured within a framework that respects the diversity of society and preserves national harmony.

"Jakim supports the position of the minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs) that freedom of expression must always be guided by propriety and responsibility, while respecting religion, race and the institution of the monarchy and complying with the limits set by law," he said.