PUTRAJAYA: National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang (pic) has urged the authorities to probe the controversy that made Catholic priests and nuns the butt of a joke during a speech at the 2026 Umno General Assembly.
He said a proper investigation should be conducted if any legal violations are found, including under Section 298 and Section 298A of the Penal Code [Act 574] and relevant provisions of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 [Act 588].
He said regardless of intent, jokes that touch on religious institutions, religious figures, sacred texts or the beliefs of any follower should never be made and must not be taken lightly.
"Religion is not a laughing matter. Matters that are sacred and respected by a community should not be ridiculed, turned into sexual innuendo, or used solely to elicit laughter and applause," he said in a statement on Tuesday (Sept 15).
He said such acts could hurt the feelings of religious followers and also potentially undermine the harmony that has been built within the country's multi-religious and multi-cultural society.
Aaron stressed that the freedom to speak, engage in politics or make jokes does not mean one is free to violate the religious sensitivities and beliefs of others.
He said this principle must apply to all, regardless of religion, race, status or political affiliation.
Aaron also acknowledged the willingness of the individual involved to apologise, and hoped the controversy would serve as a lesson to all leaders, speakers and the wider community to be more careful in choosing their words, particularly when touching on such matters.
He said this also aligned with the fifth principle of the Rukun Negara, Kesopanan dan Kesusilaan, which requires every citizen to uphold good manners, speech and conduct in community life.
"In a multi-religious and multi-cultural country, this principle is not merely a saying, but a vital foundation for ensuring that differences are respected, sensitivities are safeguarded and harmony continues to be preserved," he said. - Bernama
