‘Mentega Terbang’ director slams criminal action over film

‘Mentega Terbang’ director Khairi Anwar Jailani has voiced concern that criminal action by the government over the film will make storytellers stop telling their stories out of fear of prosecution.

PETALING JAYA: The director of “Mentega Terbang”, a local indie movie that was banned by the authorities, has cried foul at criminal action by the government against the filmmakers for “wounding religious feelings”.

Khairi Anwar Jailani was reportedly served with a summons, dated yesterday, to answer a charge framed under Section 298 of the Penal Code at the Kuala Lumpur magistrates’ court tomorrow.

“If I’m not mistaken, this would be the first time a filmmaker (in Malaysia) is criminally charged in court due to a film.

“I am disappointed if this is a way to silence storytellers, and concerned that it would make many more storytellers stop telling their stories out of fear of prosecution,” Khairi told FMT.

“Mentega Terbang” producer Tan Meng Kheng was also served with a similar summons yesterday.

Last month, Tan and Khairi filed an application with the High Court to commence a legal challenge against the government over its decision to ban the film.

Previously screened via online streaming platforms, the film was criticised over some scenes which were said to go against Islamic teachings and beliefs.

The home ministry banned the film on Sept 1, a move described by the duo as “irrational” and a violation of the freedom of speech guaranteed in the Federal Constitution.

The 104-minute film is an independent movie about the religious conflict faced by Muslim teenager Aisyah, who explores other religions, especially for answers to the question of life after death.

The Islamic development department also said it found elements in the film that went against the creed and way of life of Malaysian Muslims, who follow the Syafie school of thought.