KUALA LUMPUR – The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has decided against suspending Maestra Broadcast Sdn Bhd’s license but has imposed a RM250,000 fine over the controversial content uploaded on ERA FM’s official TikTok account.
In a statement, MCMC said the penalty was issued under Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998, following amendments that took effect on February 11.
The commission noted that it considered the company’s appeal, the remedial actions taken, and its formal apology before reaching the decision.
“After reviewing the appeal from Maestra Broadcast, which included justifications and corrective measures taken by the company, we have decided not to suspend its licence,” MCMC said.
“Consideration was also given to the company’s formal apology and the potential impact of a suspension on Melody and Mix FM, which operate under the same licence.”
MCMC also acknowledged the impact that a suspension would have had on Melody and Mix FM, which operate under the same licence as ERA FM. The fine was approved by the Attorney General’s Department before being issued.
The commission stressed that it takes a serious view of any online content that could incite religious or racial discord, urging all platform operators and users to act responsibly in maintaining national harmony.
The initial suspension threat had drawn criticism from MIC deputy president Datuk Seri M. Saravanan, who cautioned that such a move would be excessive and could affect many employees who were not involved in the controversy.
“Many innocent employees of all races work there, and their livelihoods should not be impacted due to the actions of a few individuals,” he said.
He called for unity, forgiveness, and fairness in handling the matter, especially during the holy month of Ramadan. He acknowledged that the radio presenters involved had made a serious misstep but were already facing the consequences.
However, Saravanan also urged firm action against those who incite religious tensions online, warning that selective enforcement could undermine public trust in the law.
Astro Audio also expressed regret over the incident and reaffirmed its commitment to adhering to regulatory standards and community guidelines.
On March 4, Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil directed MCMC to investigate a viral video showing three ERA FM radio presenters allegedly mocking a religious ceremony. MCMC later summoned Astro’s top management to assist in the probe under Section 233 of the Act.
The following day, six employees of the Era FM radio station, including three announcers were summoned by Bukit Aman to have their statements recorded.
The three announcers are Nabil Ahmad, Azad Jasmin, and Radin Amir, faced allegations of mocking religious ceremonies of other faiths.
Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Razarudin Husain previously stated that they would be questioned by the Classified Crime Investigation Unit (USJT) of Bukit Aman’s Criminal Investigation Department.
The three Era FM radio announcers, who host the 3 Pagi Era show, issued a public apology on Instagram for the controversial video, which was perceived as mocking the kavadi rite, a ritual performed at Thaipusam.
They were also suspended from their segment by Astro Audio until further notice while an internal investigation is conducted into the allegations.
The trio went to Batu Caves to make another apology, this time to representatives of the temple management there. – March 11, 2025