KUALA LUMPUR – Khairi Anwar Jailani, director of the controversial film Mentega Terbang, is disappointed that he is being charged in the magistrate court tomorrow for allegedly insulting religion.
Khairi is facing a charge under Section 298 of the Penal Code alongside the film’s producer, Tan Meng Kheng.
Speaking to Scoop, Khairi expressed dismay at being the first filmmaker charged with criminal offenses in court solely based on the content of a film.
“I am disappointed, if this is a method to silence storytellers, and (I am) worried it will deter more storytellers from sharing their narratives due to fear of prosecution,” he said.
“To be charged with a crime for telling an honest, sincere, and personal story like Mentega Terbang is both disappointing and disturbing.”
Section 298 states that whoever intentionally utters words, makes sounds, gestures, or places objects visible to another person with the deliberate intention of wounding their religious feelings can face punishment of up to a year in jail, a fine, or both.
Mentega Terbang faced public criticism after its screening on streaming platform Viu last year, accused of challenging and distorting the faith of Muslims.
The film explores the differences and similarities of various religions in Malaysia, depicting the struggles of a 15-year-old teenager named Aisyah as she explores different ideologies, particularly the concept of life after death.
For instance, one scene in the film shows the protagonist’s father granting her permission to choose her own path in life by embracing other religions.
Another scene depicts Aisyah expressing her desire to eat pork, a taboo meat in Islam, which was perceived as touching on the sensitivities of Muslims.
In response, various quarters called for the prohibition of the film’s screening, deeming it dangerous, especially for youths who may not fully understand Islam.
Subsequently, the Home Ministry banned the film’s screening in September last year.
However, both Khairi and Meng Kheng challenged the decision in court.
Mentega Terbang was produced by Anomalist Production and Meng Kheng Entertainment, with the screenplay written by Khairi, Arjun Thanaraju, Visshnu Varman, and Ti Teng-Hui. – January 16, 2024