Kuala lumpur: The Federal Territories Mufti Department (JMWP) has urged artistes, producers, and broadcasters to remain mindful and responsible, and to use Islamic principles and local cultural values as key references in producing creative works.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Federal Territories Mufti Ahmad Fauwaz Fadzil emphasized that the arts industry and media platforms should serve as mediums to educate, nurture character, and instill positive values. He stated, "JMWP is of the view that elements which touch on religious sensitivities and local cultural norms, whether directly or implicitly, must be curbed immediately."
Ahmad Fauwaz further elaborated that works produced must be responsible, should not provoke controversy, and must not undermine social harmony and moral values, particularly among the younger generation. This statement came in light of the recent controversy surrounding the drama series 'Madu atau Racun,' which has sparked public concern.
He expressed regret over the screening of the series and emphasized that Islam places great importance on safeguarding the sanctity of faith, the family institution, and proper conduct in religious life. Any portrayal of lifestyles, values, or narratives that contradicted Islamic teachings and Eastern cultural values, he said, was clearly inconsistent with the principles of 'Maqasid Syariah,' which aim to safeguard religion, intellect, dignity, lineage, and property.
Ahmad Fauwaz urged Muslims in the Federal Territories to work together to uphold the sanctity of religion, preserve good morals, and exercise wisdom in choosing what to watch to protect the faith and identity of the Muslim community. He concluded with a prayer for the protection of the country from influences that could erode societal values and morals.
In response to the controversy, Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs) Senator Dr. Zulkifli Hasan stated that the government rejected the screening of 'Madu atau Racun' and regretted the inclusion of elements that touched on religious sensitivities and local cultural norms.
Furthermore, Communications Minister and MADANI Government spokesperson Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil reported that the Communications and Multimedia Content Forum of Malaysia (CMCF), along with the National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (FINAS), met with the production team and streaming platform iQIYI to discuss the drama's content.
FINAS CEO Datuk Azmir Saifuddin Mutalib announced that iQIYI agreed to temporarily remove the six episodes that had already been released and defer the remaining six episodes to allow for editing and reassessment of all 12 episodes. 'Madu atau Racun' is a 12-episode drama series produced by MIG Production Sdn Bhd, which began streaming on iQIYI on August 14, 2026.