Police Investigate Comedian Harith Iskander and Cecelia Yap for Online Comments
Police Take a Serious View of Online Comments
Johor police chief M Kumar has issued a strict warning against individuals playing up sentiments related to royalty, religion, and race on social media. This warning comes as the police investigate three reports received against comedian Harith Iskander and an individual named Cecelia Yap for their online comments.
Investigations Underway
The police are investigating the matter under Section 298 of the Penal Code for intentionally wounding the religious feelings of others, as well as Section 505(c) of the same code, for making statements conducing to public mischief. The case is also being investigated under Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998, which criminalises offensive online content.
Reports Filed in Three Locations
The three reports were filed in Iskandar Puteri, Johor Bahru Utara, and Kluang, respectively.
Police Warning
"We take the matter seriously and strictly warn all parties against playing up sentiments related to royalty, religion, and race on social media that can cause division and disrupt public harmony," said Kumar. He added that legal action would be taken against anyone who intentionally disrupts public order and security.
Background to the Controversy
Local celebrity Shahrol Azizie Azmi, also known as Shahrol Shiro, filed a police report regarding Harith’s Facebook post. In the police report, Shahrol also lodged a complaint against Yap, a Facebook user. Shahrol claimed that Harith’s post and Yap’s comment insulted Islam and the Prophet Muhammad.
The Controversial Post
In a Facebook post last week, Harith jokingly said his faith was shaken after seeing a menu advertising "Ham Sap Coffee", because it contained the word "ham". This joke follows a controversy surrounding chicken ham sandwiches allegedly lacking halal certification being sold at a convenience store in Universiti Malaya.
Conclusion
The police are taking a serious view of online comments that may be deemed offensive or divisive. It is essential for individuals to be responsible and respectful in their online interactions to avoid causing harm or offense to others.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the purpose of the police investigation?
A: The police are investigating three reports received against comedian Harith Iskander and an individual named Cecelia Yap for their online comments.
Q: What are the charges being investigated?
A: The police are investigating the matter under Section 298 of the Penal Code, Section 505(c) of the same code, and Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998.
Q: What is the police warning?
A: The police are warning individuals against playing up sentiments related to royalty, religion, and race on social media, as it can cause division and disrupt public harmony.