'Muslims shouldn't be involved in films against Islamic creed'

The Umno ulama council takes seriously the normalisation of Malaysians making online films that touch on religious sensitivities, particularly those that go against the Islamic creed and syariah.

Its executive secretary Mohd Khairuddin Aman Razali said Muslims should not be involved in the production of films that are not in line with Islamic religious beliefs.

Though he did not mention any specific films, it is believed he was referring to the controversial ‘Mentega Terbang’ which has come under the spotlight recently.

“To guarantee religious harmony in the country, it is not appropriate for such films to be allowed to spread and be produced through independent channels even in the name of creative freedom and freedom of speech.

“Muslims should not be involved in the production of such films either as producers, screenwriters, actors or anything related for any reason whatsoever,” Khairuddin (above) said in a statement today.

He said action should be taken against those who create films touching on the religious sensitivities of Malaysians.

Thus, the council welcomed the Islamic Development Department's (Jakim) move in calling the parties responsible for the making of ‘Mentega Terbang’ to seek more explanation on the matter.

Khairuddin added that other enforcement agencies should also immediately take stern action in accordance with the laws.

Jakim previously said ‘Mentega Terbang’ had gone against the creed and way of life of Muslims in this country.

Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Mohd Na’im Mokhtar said Jakim has been asked to submit a detailed report to the Malaysian Communication and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) so that legal action can be taken.

The police have also confirmed that the MCMC will handle the investigation of the film.

In a related development, the Film Censorship Board (LPF) is thoroughly examining all aspects related to ‘Mentega Terbang’ before deciding on its next course of action.

The Home Ministry in a statement today said that the LPF is aware of issues arising from the film which has garnered the public’s attention after reviews for it went viral on social media.

LPF has since said the film was not in its records and it is only available online.

“Therefore the screening or streaming of the film is outside the jurisdiction of LPF,” the board added. - Mkini