Astro promises to strengthen content review as Era FM hosts receive major backlash

Astro has put out a statement acknowledging, and expressing regret over the actions of its Era FM hosts which led to public backlash. Just yesterday, a video involving three Era FM hosts surfaced online where they allegedly mocked the religious kavadi ritual. In the video, the hosts were seen mimicking the sacred Hindu act performed during Thaipusam, chanting the phrase “Vel Vel” while laughing.

The statement published by Astro Audio confirmed that the hosts (Nabil Ahmad, Azad Jasmin and Radin) and three other staff members have been suspended. The broadcaster added that a thorough internal investigation will be carried out, and it will also cooperate with authorities and regulators over the matter.

“Astro Audio is committed to upholding the trust of our listeners and maintaining a respectful and inclusive media environment. We are taking steps to strengthen our content review processes to ensure that we continue to create programming that reflects the values and expectations of our audience,” the statement read. 

“We deeply appreciate the feedback, concerns, and guidance from all parties and remain committed to ensuring that all our content adheres to the required guidelines and regulations.” 

Don’t miss: TV3 apologises for cross-dressers at music event

The three hosts, Nabil, Azad and Radin have also issued an apology video on Era FM’s official social media platforms, and said they never intended to offend anyone with their actions and assured the same mistake will not be repeated. Era FM also posted a written apology, for offending the Indian and Hindu communities.  

Industry reactions

The video has widely been criticised by politicians, religious groups, Malaysian netizens, and industry players. Long time media professional, and former Astro Radio CEO Jake Abdullah, said in a LinkedIn post that the incident was unacceptable, and that he was not sure how the content received the green light to be posted up online. 

“We hated those compliant meetings as it was unsexy, but so necessary. I remember Mediha Mahmood was heading this for Astro, and we had to create it for the radio department. Always double and triple checking. [...] With so many levels of checks, it was clearly negligence. While I hope the boys have learnt their lesson, I do not think this will be easily forgotten,” said Jake.  

Meanwhile, the centre for independent journalism (CIJ) also released a statement condemning the Era FM hosts’ actions. “While we acknowledge the prompt internal process initiated by Astro Audio and the subsequent suspension of the three hosts, a further in-depth probe on the root and systemic cause for the racist actions of its staff is essential.”

The CIJ also called to attention the need for further ethical guidelines and sensitisation training for media practitioners on issues related to race and religion within an ethical and human rights framework. It also called for stronger measures to encourage accountability, especially for national media entities with wide reach. 

Separately, the Malaysia Hindu Sangam (MHS) has thanked communications Fahmi Fadzil for acting swiftly in response to the viral video. In a press statement, MHS lauded the minister for calling on the Malaysian communications and multimedia commission (MCMC) to take immediate action against those involved. 

"Such acts of mockery against any religious practice are unacceptable in a multi-religious and multicultural society like Malaysia. The sanctity of religious expressions must be respected by all, and no community should have to endure such blatant insensitivity. Although the personnel concerned from the station have issued an apology, we urge the radio station to take stern action, as they've set a wrong example."

MHS also called on all Hindus to come forward to lodge police reports against the incident to ensure action was taken against Era FM, and for all parties responsible to be held accountable under the law. 

Police reports over actions

In a report by Bernama, Razarudin Husain, inspector-general of police, confirmed that six reports were lodged over the video, which garnered 95,400 views and 204 shares on Era FM’s social media account before it was taken down.  

The case is currently being investigated under the Penal Code for acts that cause disharmony on religious grounds, as well as for improper use of network facilities or services. The presenters are also expected to be summoned to the MCMC headquarters for questioning.

Among some of the groups which have spoken out against the matter include the Malaysian Hindu Sangam (MHS), department of Islamic development (Jakim), the Malaysian community care foundation (MCCF), the unity ministry, digital ministry, communications ministry, and the Malaysian Indian congress (MIC). 

Malaysia’s prime minister Anwar Ibrahim also warned all parties to avoid 3R (race, religion and royalty) polemics in any form of statement of action, and to prioritise mutual respect and love in the community.  

This is not the first time a radio host has faced public backlash. Last year, netizens called for boycotts of Fly FM following the station’s introduction of social media content creator Arieff Yong as their new weekday morning host, with online sentiment toward Yong being 94% negative.  

In 2021, Hitz FM Sarawak’s DJ Yusuf resigned after facing criticisms over a video of himself making fun of a science teacher’s English on DidikTV, according to a Star report. The outlet had also reported in the same year, that Hot FM ended its contract with DJ Shuk Sahar after news of his alleged extramarital affair went viral.  

Related articles: 
UOL apologises following 'blackface' backlash 
MY actors give moral support in Astro's AI-powered social media initiative
'Ham' joke gone too far: Harith Iskander faces backlash, MY police submits investigation to AGC