The streaming platform airing controversial drama “Madu Atau Racun” could face appropriate action if an ongoing assessment finds breaches of existing guidelines, regulations or requirements, Communications Minister Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil said.
Fahmi said the government would not compromise on drama or film productions that touch on religious and racial sensitivities, stressing that creative freedom must be accompanied by responsibility towards Malaysia’s religious values, social harmony and cultural sensitivities.
The controversy centres on Madu Atau Racun, which is being streamed on over-the-top (OTT) platform iQIYI and has drawn public concern over elements alleged to be inconsistent with religious and local cultural norms.
Fahmi said he had been briefed by the chief executive officer of the National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (FINAS) on the controversy.
The Communications Ministry has subsequently instructed the Communications and Multimedia Content Forum of Malaysia (CMCF), which operates under the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), together with FINAS, to meet the production company and iQIYI.
Fahmi also highlighted the regulatory distinction between conventional broadcasters and streaming services.
FINAS has regulatory jurisdiction over filmmaking and cinema-related activities, while MCMC oversees television broadcasting and communications.
However, Fahmi noted that OTT streaming platforms are currently not fully subjected to the same licensing framework that applies to conventional broadcasters, highlighting the evolving regulatory challenges posed by the growth of digital streaming services.
Nevertheless, the minister said the government would not hesitate to take appropriate action if the assessment and investigation establish that any existing guidelines, regulations or requirements had been breached.
