KUALA LUMPUR — Radio Televisyen Malaysia (RTM) has suspended the airing of the animated series Santiago of the Seas following concerns raised about its content, which some have claimed includes LGBTQ+ themes.
The episode, which aired on TV2 on November 16, 2025, was scrutinised after social media users expressed their unease over alleged subtle portrayals of LGBTQ+ characters.
In response to the controversy, RTM issued a statement explaining that while a content review found no explicit depictions of same-sex relationships, the decision was made to pause the show for further examination.
The broadcaster assured the public that it remained committed to adhering to broadcasting ethics and ensuring that no content would cause offence or societal discomfort.
“Following the content assessment, no actions or depictions suggesting same-sex relationships, nor elements promoting such themes, were found,” the statement read.
“However, to avoid any potential misinterpretation or public sensitivity, RTM has decided to halt the broadcast of the animation for a thorough review of the entire series.”
RTM urged the public not to speculate, encouraging those with concerns to contact the station directly for clarification.
The controversy was amplified after the PAS Ulama Council (DUPP) criticised the series for allegedly promoting an LGBTQ+ agenda.
Datuk Mohd Nor Hamzah, the information chief of DUPP, called for the government to take decisive action to prevent the spread of such content, which he warned could influence children.
“The subtle promotion of LGBTQ+ ideologies through children’s cartoons poses a serious threat to the moral fabric of our society,” Hamzah said in a statement.
“It is vital for the government to scrutinise foreign media content before it reaches our children, as these influences are becoming increasingly difficult to detect.”
DUPP also emphasised the importance of focusing on local animation production to ensure content aligns with the country’s values.
“The government should prioritise local animation that reflects our culture and values, rather than allowing harmful foreign influences to infiltrate our children’s minds,” Hamzah added.
Some parents and concerned citizens, particularly in the context of Malaysia’s Islamic identity, have voiced objections to the broadcast, questioning how such content was allowed to air on a government-run channel.
‘Santiago of the Seas’, which was partially produced in Malaysia, has drawn attention due to the involvement of Lemon Sky Studios, a local animation company. Much of the animation and CGI work was completed during the Movement Control Order (MCO) in 2020. – November 17, 2025