PUTRAJAYA – The Communications Ministry is not discounting the possibility of regulating podcasts on any platform in the future, following the controversy on legal brothels ignited by veteran actor Datuk Rosyam Nor.
Its minister Fahmi Fadzil said the rules under consideration could prevent podcasters from openly discussing sensitive issues for public consumption.
“We have no specific plans yet, but you’ve given me an idea on the matter,” he told a press conference after attending the Cellular Service Quality Test (Voice Calls) at the ministry here today.
The discussion arose following a podcast statement from Rosyam, who expressed personal views on the establishment of brothels in the country.
Rosyam argued that such services could help address rape crimes involving foreign nationals.
“There are approximately three million foreign immigrants working in Malaysia now. Their spouses may be absent, and if they have needs, what can they do? If they keep it private, where can they seek help?” Rosyam asked.
In response to Rosyam’s statement, Fahmi asserted that the idea contradicts civil and shariah law provisions.
“I agree with the views of Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Mohd Na’im Mokhtar. This is not something we can entertain. The law does not permit it, so I believe there might be a misunderstanding in Datuk Rosyam Nor’s perspective. Brothels are not allowed in Malaysia,” Fahmi explained.
After facing criticism, Rosyam clarified that the circulating footage about the brothel issue was a promotional video for a podcast programme produced by Suhan Channel.
Rosyam, whose real name is Mohamed Noor Shamsuddin, 57, expressed surprise that the video had gone viral.
“There’s been quite a stir about the brothel statement I supposedly made. Actually, that viral video was a promo for my podcast programme on Suhan Channel titled ‘Otak Porno,’ and it was a discussion,” he clarified. – January 9, 2024