The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has urge Seniman, a local artiste association, to come forward to lodge an official complaint against Namewee’s new film titled ‘Babi‘. Seniman has recently lodged a police report against the film at Taman Melawati police station and they want MCMC to block the film on social media including YouTube.
According to the official statement, the MCMC said a detailed assessment of the content can be made under the provisions of the Communications and Multimedia Act (CMA) 1998. The content can also be assessed by other enforcement agencies under the respective laws related to content and broadcasting.
The MCMC said if it found violations with the content, it will take necessary action based on the offenses committed and according to law. The commission also said that it has reached out to YouTube about the ‘Babi’ trailer on 19th November 2020 but it has yet to get response from the YouTube team that’s based outside Malaysia.
It was reported that Seniman secretary-general Mohd Hafiz Mohd Nafiah felt that the film which was screened abroad contained elements of racism, despite claims that it was based on a true story. He also said that Seniman welcomed any party that want to produce films but they must follow the guidelines stipulated by the National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (FINAS) and Film Censorship Board.
Mohd Hafiz emphasised that they do not prohibit any party from making critical films but everyone must understand that Malaysia is a multi-racial country.
‘Babi’ which was directed by Wee Meng Chee, also known as Namewee, was reported to have received nominations at four international film festivals. According to the director, this include Berlin International Film Festival, Bangkok International Film Festival, Toronto International Film Festival and the Golden Horse Award. He added the film is based on a real-life event that took place in 2000.
[ IMAGE SOURCE ]
