After making his debut as an actor in “Taruh”, a local short web film inspired by the popular South Korean TV show Squid Game, Dr Maszlee Malik appears in another TV series and this time, he portrays a villainous role known as Jamal Banna.
The series is known as Kudeta, and Maszlee’s role is an evil former Prime Minister who has been jailed for his crimes.
A scene has recently circulated online which shows the conversation in prison between Jamal and Mariam, a role played by actress Vanidah Imran, but Jamal’s dialogue has been criticised for its obscene nature.
In the circulated scene, Jamal tells Mariam that he has 1000 ways to bury her alive, both gentle and harsh ways. He then continues by taunting Mariam with sexual remarks.
Since the scene went viral online, many Malaysians have expressed their anger, and they were shocked that the dialogue was said by the former Minister of Education. Maszlee, who is aware of the backlash has since issued a public apology to fellow women via his Facebook post last night (January 29).
“I apologised to all women out there, regardless of where you are.”
Maszlee said that he’s well aware of the effects of films and dramas in conveying a positive message to the audience. However, it was never his intention to upset anyone with the sensitivities of any culture.
“I admit my mistakes for playing the role of an evil Prime Minister without taking into account the words that I used, which has affected some people emotionally and mentally,” Maszlee explained.
He then added, “May God forgive me for all my mistakes”.
The former Minister of Education also thanked everyone who has provided feedback towards his character and assured that he will request the responsible TV station to filter the scene for the sake of respect towards the sensitivity of others.
He then invited everyone to watch the political thriller that he believes has a lot to learn from, aside from the 5-seconds of the controversial scene.
Drama siri Kudeta – Mohon MaafSaya Dr Maszlee bin Malik ingin membuat pemohonan maaf secara terbuka kepada semua…
Posted by Dr Maszlee Malik on Saturday, January 28, 2023
You can also watch and listen to the scene below.
Tudia, teruk nau bekas Menteri Pendidikan carry dialogue macamni ??
Merosakkan nilai org agama dan org akademik ?
Dia org yg berilmu pun sanggup ye berlakon mcmni ?? pic.twitter.com/agz6iyKt2z
— Amru ?? (@amrufateh) January 28, 2023
Fellow Malaysian audiences, do you think the scene is too much for local viewers?
Also read: Maszlee Malik’s Daughter’s Professor Mistakes Him for Late Chairman Mao, M’sians are Puzzled
