KUALA LUMPUR – Celebrity Harith Iskander’s ex-wife has taken to social media to reveal that their family received death threats and abusive messages, following police investigations into the comedian’s Facebook post which allegedly insulted Islam.
Concerns over the family’s safety were a main factor behind the cancellation of Harith’s stand-up comedy show at Dewan Filharmonik Petronas (DFP), said Dr Jezamine Lim in an Instagram post.
She slammed the makers of such threats, especially those directed at her children.
“This past week, I received a death threat directed at me, but what cut deeper and shook me to my core was a vile threat of abuse against our children.
“Let me be crystal clear: threatening the safety of innocent children crosses every imaginable line.
“It is despicable, cowardly and inhumane,” she added in an Instagram post today, noting that police are currently probing the matter after reports were filed.
DFP yesterday announced the cancellation of the “DFP Punchline: Harith Iskander 35 Years Of Laughter” show. However, it had not provided any reason behind the decision.
Meanwhile, Lim explained that the threats and “relentless” online attacks from certain individuals led to DFP and the family agreeing that it was best to not proceed with the show, initially scheduled to take place tonight.
She said Harith was “heartbroken” by the event cancellation, and their two children were also “deeply disappointed” as they were set to be part of the show’s opening act.
“I am utterly disheartened by how (a) mindless mob mentality can drive people to such extremes…to sink so low as to send threats to a person’s family? To target children? How do you justify that? Is that truly what you believe protects your religion or your beliefs?” she said.
“I was taught Allah asked Muslims to be kind to all people, regardless of their actions or status. Kindness is a virtue that reflects Allah’s own merciful and compassionate nature.
“Imagine if that energy were redirected towards something meaningful – toward kindness – to rebuilding a better world,” she added.
In a separate post, Lim expressed her thanks to those who have reached out to her with love and support, noting that she is “holding onto hope” for the individuals behind the abuse and hate.
She also said her family is trusting authorities to handle the matter professionally.
Yesterday, Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Razarudin Husain confirmed that police recorded Harith’s statement on Wednesday over his Facebook post involving the word “ham”.
Harith’s post has drawn criticism for allegedly opening up the space for comments that insult Islam, with one user reportedly mocking the name “Muhammad.” Razarudin said the police have identified the user in question.
The Malaysian Islamic Development Department (Jakim) has since announced plans to summon Harith to clarify his intentions behind the joke.
The case is being investigated under Sections 298 and 505 of the Penal Code, which deal with acts intended to wound religious feelings and statements conducive to public mischief, as well as Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998, which pertains to improper use of network facilities or services. – January 25, 2025