Malaysia Bans Soap Opera 'Madu atau Racun', What are the Reasons?

The Malaysian Prime Minister’s Office has banned the broadcast of the drama ‘Madu atau Racun’. The soap opera was deemed to contain several elements that have the potential to offend the religious sensitivities and cultural norms of the local community.

Reporting from Malay Mail, the Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs), Senator Zulkifli Hasan, expressed concern and regret over the emergence of elements deemed contrary to Islamic teachings and Eastern cultural values, both explicitly and implicitly.

“The inclusion of elements that contradict Islamic teachings and Eastern cultural values must be prevented to ensure the preservation of the faith and moral values of the community, especially the younger generation,” Zulkifli stated in his announcement on Wednesday (2/9/2026).

According to him, Islam upholds the sanctity of the family institution and etiquette in religious life. Therefore, the depiction of lifestyles deemed to deviate from these values is inconsistent with the moral principles that the society seeks to maintain.

Following up on the issue, Zulkifli stated that the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (Jakim) will work with relevant agencies to conduct a review of the drama’s content.

Zulkifli also urged creative industry players, producers, and broadcasters to be more sensitive and responsible in producing works. He requested all parties to use official regulations as a guide in producing programmes that can instil positive values and contribute to nation-building.

“The arts industry and media platforms should be utilised as a means to instil noble values, rather than triggering controversies that could disrupt the harmony of societal norms,” he said.

On the other hand, Zulkermli called upon the Muslim community to work together to safeguard the sanctity of religion and moral integrity, while maintaining steadfastness and wisdom in responding to various developments in the creative and media industries.

This statement reinforces the Malaysian government’s stance in paying attention to entertainment content deemed to have links to religious sensitivities and the social values of the community.