Government rejects drama series over religious, cultural sensitivities
Malaysia's Prime Minister's Department (JPM) has rejected the airing of the drama seriesMadu Atau Racun, with Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs) Senator Dr Zulkifli Hasan expressing regret over the inclusion of elements that touched on religious sensitivities and local cultural norms, whether explicitly or implicitly.
In a statement on September 2, Zulkifli said: "The inclusion of elements contrary to Islamic teachings and Eastern cultural values must be curbed to ensure that the faith and moral values of the community, particularly the young generation, remain safeguarded."
He said Islamic principles uphold the sanctity of the family institution and the decorum of religious life, while depictions of deviant lifestyles are contrary to these noble values.
Jakim files report with MCMC
The Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (Jakim) has backed the minister's rejection, saying the drama's content has raised public concern and contains elements deemed contrary to religious and cultural values. In a media statement, Jakim said it "fully supports the firm stance taken by the Honourable Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs) in rejecting the screening of the dramaMadu atau Racun, as it has caused public concern."
"This firm stance is justified, as the content of the drama broadcast through the iQIYI platform contains elements that contradict religious, cultural and human values," the department said.
Jakim said it was closely monitoring the matter under its Guidelines for the Censorship of Islamic Broadcasting Content (Jakim Circular No. 4/2015). The department also said it had lodged an official report with the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC).
"Jakim will continue to cooperate with relevant agencies, including the MCMC and the National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (Finas), to ensure that appropriate action is taken in accordance with their respective jurisdictions and the provisions of the laws currently in force," it said. The statement was issued by Jakim director-general Datuk Dr Sirajuddin Suhaimee.
Zulkifli urges industry to follow guidelines
Zulkifli said Jakim would work closely with relevant agencies to review the content and take appropriate follow-up action based on the Guidelines for Content Screening of Islamic-Themed Broadcasting Materials (JAKIM No. 4/2015) and existing legal provisions. He said the measure was important to ensure that all broadcast content was appropriate and upheld the sanctity of the religion.
He urged creative industry practitioners, producers and broadcasters to remain sensitive and responsible by referring to established official guidelines when producing works that nurture positive values and contribute to nation-building.
"The arts industry and media platforms should be utilised as mediums to instil virtuous values, rather than to spark controversies that could undermine the harmony of societal norms," he said. He also called on the Muslim community to unite in upholding the sanctity of the religion and moral integrity with steadfastness and wisdom.
About the drama
The 12-episode Malay-languageMadu atau Racun, starring Aliff Aziz, Uqasha Senrose and Elisya Sandha, began streaming on iQIYI on August 23. The drama has drawn criticism on social media over scenes alleged to involve same-sex relationships, with some users calling for the series to be removed.
The controversy has also prompted discussion over the regulatory jurisdiction governing locally produced content released through international streaming and over-the-top platforms.