Stop harassing Mentega Terbang cast - civil society group urges govt

A group of civil society activists today urged the government to stop harassment of those involved in making the controversial movie Mentega Terbang and take measures to ensure their safety.

In a statement, the group of 74 organisations and individuals said the actors and filmmakers behind the movie had come under police investigation, getting death threats and vandalisation of their properties since it became a public issue.

"We call on the Malaysian authorities to end the harassment and intimidation of the actors and filmmakers of Mentega Terbang, who have been targeted solely for exercising their right to freedom of expression.

"(Authorities also must) take all appropriate measures to ensure the safety of all those involved in the making of Mentega Terbang and their families, according to their wishes," the statement said.

Among the organisations that endorsed the statement include Amnesty International Malaysia, Beyond Borders Malaysia, Centre for Independent Journalism, All Women's Action Society, and Freedom Film Network.

Offensive

Mentega Terbang was perceived by certain quarters to be a threat to Islam.

The film, which aired on the streaming service Viu, tells the story of 15-year-old Aishah as she grapples with questions about life after death in various religions after her mother is diagnosed with a terminal illness.

However, the Muslim Consumers’ Association and Putra found it offensive that the movie showcased a Muslim seeking answers in other faiths.

Following police reports lodged against the movie, the authority launched an investigation and summoned Mentega Terbang's director, producer and actors to get their statements recorded.

Criticisms against the movie escalated when its director Khairi Anwar received death threats. His car was splashed with black and red paint.

Actor Arjun Thanaraju’s car was also splashed with red paint and acid at his residence in Ampang.

Meanwhile, the group in the statement also urged the government to tackle the causes of religious and racial tension in the country in a manner that complies with human rights.

They also called for authorities to stop investigating participants of the Women's March 2023 in Kuala Lumpur, which the group said is against freedom of expression and assembly. - Mkini