KUALA LUMPUR – Police have recorded a statement from comedian Harith Iskander following a Facebook post involving the word “ham,” which has been alleged to insult Islam.
Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Razarudin Husain confirmed that the 54-year-old comedian’s statement was taken last Wednesday, Bernama reported.
The post, which featured a coffee menu item with the word “ham” as part of its name, sparked controversy due to its perceived link to the ongoing debate about halal labelling, after Umno Youth chief Datuk Dr Akmal Saleh raised concerns over a ham and cheese sandwich sold at a KK Mart outlet on the Universiti Malaya (UM) campus, questioning how the item could be deemed halal.
Razarudin said the police have identified another individual linked to the case.
Harith’s post has drawn criticism for allegedly opening up the space for comments that insult Islam, with one user reportedly mocking the name “Muhammad.” The Malaysian Islamic Development Department (Jakim) has also announced plans to summon Harith to clarify his intentions behind the joke.
Checks by Scoop found that the post is still on his Facebook account.
He also disclosed that 16 police reports have been lodged regarding the “ham” issue, prompting the authorities to open an investigation paper.
The case is being investigated under Sections 298 and 505 of the Penal Code, which deal with acts intended to wound religious feelings and statements conducive to public mischief, as well as Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998, which pertains to improper use of network facilities or services. – January 24, 2025