HOME Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail defended the government’s decision to ban the film Mentega Terbang because it was found to be against the Islamic creed as it promoted apostasy.
He said the film also contains Dakyah and Christian influences that are subtly incorporated to the extent that they can influence the religious beliefs of Muslims.
“Disputing the existence of heaven after death and poisoning the minds of Muslims can cause mental confusion especially for the young generation.
“The film can cause anxiety and anger among the Muslim community. The issue of pluralism and liberalism is feared to undermine the beliefs of the majority of the audience,” said Saifuddin in an affidavit seen by Suara Keadilan.
In its assessment, the Film Censorship Board of Malaysia said the film promoted religious pluralism and liberalism, which could undermine a person’s faith.
Saifuddin explained that in the view of the Special Branch of the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM), the film has an element of insulting religion with its content that could shock the public and affect the peace of the country.
“I have watched the film myself for research purposes. I found that the film featured the main character Aisyah and her parents, who are all Muslims but do not adhere to the Islamic faith and do things that are against Islamic laws.”
Last January, the producer and director of the film Mentega Terbang was charged in two magistrates’ courts in Kuala Lumpur on charges of hurting the feelings of other religions through the film last year.
However, the accused, who is also the screenwriter Mohd Khairianwar Jailani, 32, and the producer Tan Meng Kheng, 37, pleaded not guilty.
The film was also screened to the public without the approval of the LPF in several locations including the University of Malaya on Jan 13, 2023. – Aug 3, 2024
