Maszlee says sorry to women for inappropriate dialogue in TV show 'Kudeta'

PETALING JAYA: Former Education minister Dr Maszlee Malik has publicly apologised, especially to women, after using inappropriate words in his role as an evil prime minister in the drama series "Kudeta".

He admitted that his mistakes and errors had disturbed the emotional and mental well-being of the public.

"I, Dr Maszlee bin Malik, would like to publicly apologise to everyone, especially to women wherever you are.

"I am aware of the effectiveness of films and dramas in conveying a good message in society. However, it (should) not offend sensitivities or culture.

"I am also extremely grateful to all parties who have given me reprimands, reminders and advice whether personally or publicly.

“May Allah forgive all my mistakes and bring us all together in goodness," he said in a statement on Sunday (Jan 29).

Astro's Kudeta drama series features Maszlee as an imprisoned former prime minister.

Maszlee was criticised by the public for using inappropriate dialogue in a brief scene, which netizens described as “misogynistic” and an insult to women, especially as the words are uttered by a well-known, highly educated figure.

Maszlee, a former political science lecturer at a public university, also said he hoped Astro could censor the scene concerned to respect the sensitivities of others.

He also called upon Malaysians to watch the drama series as it is the first Malay drama premised on politics, with thriller and action elements.

“Lots of lessons can be learned (from the series) apart from that controversial five-second scene,” he said.