"Madu Atau Racun" Production Team, iQIYI Told To Explain Drama Content - Fahmi

PUTRAJAYA, Sept 2 (Bernama) -- The Communications and Multimedia Content Forum of Malaysia (CMCF) and the National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (FINAS) are scheduled to meet the production team and iQIYI this afternoon to clarify issues surrounding the drama “Madu atau Racun”, which has prompted concern and controversy among the public.

Communications Minister and MADANI Government spokesman Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil said the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM) is also expected to participate in the meeting.

He said they had been informed by FINAS chief executive officer about the drama being streamed on iQIYI, which had raised public concerns.

“Although content from dramas and films streamed on Over-The-Top (OTT) platforms is currently not directly subject to FINAS licensing oversight, the ministry has directed the CMCF, under the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), and FINAS to meet the production team and iQIYI this afternoon to seek clarification on the drama's content,” he said.

Fahmi said this at his weekly press conference following the Cabinet meeting here today.

The Communications Minister said FINAS is responsible for regulating filmmaking and cinema activities, while MCMC oversees television broadcasting and communications.

He said OTT platforms are still not fully covered by the same licensing framework as conventional broadcasters.

However, he emphasised that the government would take a firm stance against any drama or film productions that touch on religious and racial sensitivities.

“Freedom of expression must be accompanied by a responsibility to respect religious values, social harmony, and racial and cultural sensitivities that form the foundation of national unity,” he said.

He said the government would not hesitate to take appropriate action if assessments and investigations found that any existing guidelines, regulations or provisions had been breached.

Fahmi said FINAS, representing the parties involved, would issue a further statement after the meeting, outlining the outcome of the discussions and any follow-up action to be taken.

Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Senator Dr Zulkifli Hasan said in a statement this morning that his ministry rejected the streaming of the drama “Madu atau Racun” and expressed regret over the inclusion of elements that touched on religious sensitivities and local cultural norms, whether explicitly or implicitly.

“Madu atau Racun” is a 12-episode television drama produced by MIG Production Sdn Bhd. The series began streaming on iQIYI on Aug 14, 2026.

-- BERNAMA