The Malaysian Islamic Development Department (Jakim) and the Prime Minister's Department officially blocked the 12-episode Malay-language drama series 'Madu atau Racun' due to its content clashing with religious and cultural values [1, 2, 3]. The drama began streaming on iQIYI on August 23, 2026, and sparked controversy because it featured elements seen as contrary to Islamic teachings, family sanctity, and Eastern cultural norms, including alleged portrayals of same-sex relationships [1, 2, 3].
Jakim lodged a formal complaint with the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) regarding the drama. The agency is working with MCMC and the National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (Finas) to review the content under Jakim Circular No. 4/2015, which governs Islamic content screening [1, 3].
Jakim director-general Datuk Dr Sirajuddin Suhaimee said, "Jakim fully supports the firm stance taken by the Honourable Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) in rejecting the screening of the drama Madu atau Racun, as it has caused public concern" [3].
Senator Zulkifli Hasan, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs), emphasized the need to protect faith and moral values among Malaysians, particularly youth. He urged the creative industry to follow official guidelines and avoid content that could cause controversy. He said, "The inclusion of elements contrary to Islamic teachings and Eastern cultural values must be curbed to ensure that the faith and moral values of the community, particularly the young generation, remain safeguarded." He added, "The arts industry and media platforms should be utilised as mediums to instil virtuous values, rather than to spark controversies that could undermine the harmony of societal norms" [2].
The case has also raised discussion on how local content distributed on international over-the-top (OTT) platforms should be regulated, highlighting jurisdictional questions [3].
On September 1, Jakim issued a statement supporting the minister’s rejection of the drama and lodged a report with MCMC. On September 2, the Prime Minister’s Department officially announced the blocking of 'Madu atau Racun' citing religious sensitivities [2, 3].
