The Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) arrested 2 individuals in Subang Jaya, Selangor, yesterday (24 December) to assist with investigations following a viral video of a man donning a hijab or tudung (headscarf) while drinking beer at a salon.
According to a report by Berita Harian, Bukit Aman Criminal Investigation Department (JSJ) Director Datuk M Kumar shared that the 2 individuals, a man and a woman aged 22 and 24, were arrested at about 4:30 PM.
PDRM arrests 2 in Subang Jaya over viral video of a man drinking beer while wearing a hijab
He explained that his department had previously received a report regarding the viral video recording. The investigation is being conducted by the Prosecution and Legal Division, Classified Criminal Investigation Unit (USJT)(D5) JSJ.
M Kumar stated, “The investigation is being conducted under Section 298A of the Penal Code, which is on religious grounds, causing an atmosphere of disharmony, division or hostility, hatred or malicious intent or detrimental to unity. If convicted, the person can be sentenced to imprisonment for not less than 2 years and not more than 5 years.”
“Additionally, the case is also being investigated under Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998, which is improper use of network facilities or network services. If convicted, the person can be punished with a maximum fine of RM500,000 or imprisonment for not more than 2 years or both,” he added.
“Be smart and prudent social media users”
M Kumar also stressed that PDRM will take firm and uncompromising action against any individual who deliberately insults or plays on religious sensitivities, thus creating an atmosphere of disharmony.
“The public is also urged to be smart and prudent social media users, and to avoid issuing statements that could threaten harmony and unity, especially regarding the 3R issue (religion, race and royal institutions),” he added.
Earlier, a 28-second video had gone viral online, showcasing the man wearing a hijab while drinking a beer at a salon. The salon has also since issued an apology over the video.
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