KUALA LUMPUR – Moroccan influencer Abdellatif Ouisa may have gotten more than he bargained for despite apologising for his videos at Batu Caves as Malaysia Hindu Sangam has submitted a “condemnation notice” to the Unity Ministry.
In a video message shared with Scoop, the Hindu organisation’s president T. Ganesan said the notice was to implore the government to take action against the tourist as a deterrent to others.
“The government should take stern action on this case to ensure incidents like this do not happen here again. We have sent a condemnation notice to the National Unity Ministry about this. I hope they will take action.
“Abdellatif’s behaviour is unacceptable and similar incidents should not be happening at other Hindu temples. These kinds of incidents are disturbing our peace.”
He added that tourists should be educated on Malaysia’s racial and religious sensitivities prior to entering the country.
“Tourists should be aware of the dos and don’ts at temples here. The Batu Caves temple also houses our art and culture. Tourists should be understanding and respecting other religions here.”
Abdellatif drew a fierce backlash after posting videos of him reciting certain Quranic verses on idolatry in front of the Lord Muruga statue in Batu Caves and a Buddhist temple in Genting Highlands.
Yesterday, Global Human Rights Federation president Shashi Kumar said the Moroccan influencer should be banned from entering Malaysia as he had triggered religious sentiments here.
Earlier today, Abdellatif uploaded an apology video on TikTok, citing the influx of hateful messages he had received on social media.
He said that although he recorded his video in front of the Lord Muruga statue, he was unaware that the deity was considered a god by Hindus.
Following that, Bukit Aman’s classified crime investigation unit has taken over investigations into a report lodged against him, citing 3R (race, religion and royalty) sensitivities. – May 25, 2024