So, last night the majority of the gamer community in Malaysia was in an uproar after it was discovered that Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) had blocked gaming platform Steam. Literally potong steam.
This was because of the controversial new game known as ‘Fight of Gods’ that users could purchase from Steam.
Source: Shoryuken
Apparently, the game had been deemed a “huge threat to racial unity and harmony” by Communications and Multimedia Minister Datuk Seri Dr Salleh Said Keruak according to The Star. That’s because it featured known religious entities such as Jesus Christ and Gautama Buddha as playable characters and various other deities from major religions still practised today.
However, we have good news for Steam users because MCMC has decided to lift the ban after Steam complied with their request to block the offending game from being downloaded by Malaysian users. MCMC had previously demanded that Steam disable Malaysians from downloading the game within 24 hours but they did not do so.
Source: The Star
Gamers who wanted to access their Steam accounts were shocked when they were notified that the platform was banned. On Saturday, Datuk Seri Dr Salleh tweeted to confirm that the ban would be lifted and said, “Steam had disabled the download of the game in Malaysia in accordance with our warning and request last night. Will uplift the blocking today.” Now you guys can continue to game all you like!
MCMC said that they would not tolerate the game, which originated from Taiwan as they “will not compromise with any parties that demeans the sanctity of religion and racial harmony.” Datuk Seri Dr Salleh reminded users that they should not create of spread offensive content as it was an offence under Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998.
Source: The Star
Of course, netizens had their own opinions about this issue. While they agreed that the minister had his point about the game but banning the entire website was a bit of an overreaction. “The ban on the platform is an overkill, I agree on that. However, we lack the system to avoid such silly actions.”
Others were just relieved that they could finally access their accounts and said, “There. Case closed. Stop overreacting, and stop blocking an entire site over one less-than-appropriate game.” Some disgruntled gamers complained and said, “Do you need to ban entire STEAM for just one stupid game?”
Now that Steam is unblocked, go forth and continue gaming in peace, people!
Also read: MCMC Bans Access to Steam Because of ‘Controversial’ God Fighting Game
