KUALA LUMPUR — Astro Audio has taken three radio presenters accused of mocking a Hindu religious ritual off the air and apologised for their actions.
In a statement, the radio broadcaster said that “after careful consideration”, it had decided “to take the three individuals off-air until further notice while we review the situation internally”.
The three are from 3 Pagi Era – Nabil Ahmad, Azad Jasmin (Pak Azad), and Radin Amir Affendi – who issue a public apology via an Instagram post on Era FM’s official account earlier today.
They acknowledged that the video was insensitive, particularly towards the Indian community, and expressed their regret over the incident.
The video which was uploaded on social media this morning showed a radio presenter appearing to mock the Kavadi dance, a Thaipusam ritual, by imitating it while chanting “Vel Vel” as others in the video laughed.
The clip drew criticism from Hindu social media users and drew the attention of Tapah MP M. Saravanan, who called for an open apology and urged the government to take action against Era FM.
Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo also issued a statement calling for a thorough investigation against the Era FM staff as their actions were “highly offensive” and did not reflect Malaysia’s values of mutual respect.
The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) is to conduct a thorough investigation into the staff, Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil has said.
The management of Astro and Era FM will be called to the MCMC headquarters to provide a full explanation, he also said in a statement earlier today.
Astro Audio today said it deeply regrets the incident and said the decision to suspend the three staff was made as a “responsible broadcaster”.
“We sincerely apologise for causing hurt and disappointment to those who are affected. Our announcers have acknowledged their mistake and have issued a public apology.
“Astro Audio is committed to upholding the trust of our listeners and maintaining a respectful and inclusive media environment. We are taking steps to strengthen our content review processes to ensure that we continue to create programming that reflects the values and expectations of our audience.
“We are also cooperating closely with the authorities and regulators to ensure full compliance with all guidelines and requirements,” it added.
Meanwhile, the Malaysia Hindu Sangam (MHS) thanks Fahmi for taking swift action to order an investigation into the Era FM radio presenters.
MHS in a statement said mocking any religious practice is unacceptable as Malaysia is a multicultural and multi-religious society.
“The sanctity of religious expressions must be respected by all, and no community should have to endure such blatant insensitivity. Although the personnel concerned from the station have issued an apology, we urge the radio station to take stern action, as they have set a wrong example.
“The parties responsible must be held accountable under the law to prevent future instances of religious ridicule. MHS emphasises the importance of national unity and mutual respect among all Malaysians, regardless of religion,” it said. – March 4, 2025