THE Royal Malaysian Police Force (PDRM) and a private hospital are investigating a viral video that allegedly shows one of the hospital’s staff destroying a kolam that was made for Deepavali.
In a viral 37-second TikTok video that made rounds over the weekend, a man clad in a blue Baju Melayu, sampin and songkok deliberately walks over a kolam – a traditional rice flour floor drawing commonly associated with Indians – in his shoes and messes up the design.
As he walks around the kolam, a person, presumably the one who recorded the video, remarks, “vandalism”, while holding back her laughter.
A large Deepavali banner in the background of the video depicts the KPJ logo.
In a statement last night, KPJ Klang Specialist Hospital said they have been made aware of the video, which they said showed “unprofessional behaviour”.
“KPJ Klang does not condone any act of disrespect among its staff within the compound of its hospital,” it said.
“We have launched an internal investigation into the video and stern actions will be taken should our staff (be) involved,” they added.
The private hospital said further that they are committed to the “highest level of professionalism” and “do not compromise on ethical values”.
Police investigations underway
Separately, North Klang police district headquarters chief ACP S. Vijaya Rao said they received a police report on the matter from the Bandar Baru Klang police station chief and opened an investigation.
The case is being probed under Section 298A of the Penal Code, which criminalises attempts to cause disharmony and disunity or feelings of enmity, hatred or ill will on grounds of religion.
If found guilty, the law provides for imprisonment for a term of not less than two years and not more than five years.
“The suspect in this case will be called to explain (himself) at the Klang Utara district police headquarters,” Vijaya said in a statement.
“The police advise the public to be careful with any behaviours or actions that can affect national harmony,” he added.
Many on social media have slammed the kolam destroyer over his actions, branding him as “racist” and “insensitive” to Indians who last Monday (Oct 24) celebrated the Festival of Lights.
The TikTok user who posted the video, @whothefuckisxlif, has since made his account private.
As the user’s profile picture is a screengrab of the kolam destroyer stepping on the kolam, one can assume that it is in fact his own account – and he apparently remains unapologetic over his actions. – Oct 31, 2022
