Freedom Of Creative Expression Must Be Guided By Moral Values - Zulkfifli

KUALA KANGSAR, April 17 (Bernama) -- The freedom to express creativity through artistic works within society, especially among the younger generation, must go hand in hand with the responsibility of maintaining proper conduct, moral values and the boundaries set by religion.

Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Dr Zulkifli Hasan said while the arts and entertainment fields served as important platforms for conveying messages and shaping public thinking, every work produced must be in line with principles of decency and values accepted by the country’s diverse society.

He said that Islam had never opposed art and creativity, but rather promoted the creation of works that are beneficial to society.

“Islam does not forbid its followers from engaging in artistic expression or entertainment, but every work must have clear limits and parameters

“We already have guidelines and references that can be used to ensure that works produced do not stray from the right path,” he told reporters after officiating the 2026 Madrasah Idrisiah Ihtifal Ceremony here today.

Zulkifli said that creative expression should be guided by the awareness that artistic works have a strong influence on the formation of morals, thought and culture in society, especially among young people.

“When a work is presented to the public, it is not just entertainment but also conveys certain messages and values, and therefore the creator must ensure that it does not cause public unrest or breach principles of morality and decency.

“So I urge all parties, including educational institutions, programme organisers and artistes, to play a role in cultivating the production of more constructive and ethical works,” he said.

He said that the country needs more works that can educate the community, reinforce human values and play a role in shaping the character of the younger generation.

Yesterday, Universiti Malaya (UM) issued an apology over a scene allegedly featuring indecent elements in a theatre performance competition at the university that went viral on social media, stressing that it would not compromise on any breach of programme guidelines or established regulations.

--BERNAMA