Malaysia Unity Minister calls for probe into UMNO leader's Catholic clergy joke

National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang has called for an investigation into a controversial joke involving Catholic priests and nuns made during the 2026 UMNO General Assembly. The remarks, attributed to Sepang UMNO chief Noorazli Said, have sparked widespread criticism from political leaders and the public.

Minister Aaron stated that religious institutions, clergy, and sacred texts should not be used as subjects for jokes or sexual innuendo, regardless of intent. He urged enforcement agencies to examine potential violations of the Penal Code, specifically Sections 298 and 298A, as well as the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998. He emphasized that freedom of speech does not grant license to violate the religious sensitivities of others.

While Noorazli Said expressed a willingness to apologize for causing misunderstanding, several UMNO leaders, including Youth Chief Dr. Akmal Saleh, have demanded a formal apology. Critics noted that the remarks could undermine the social harmony of Malaysia’s multi-religious society. Some academics and officials have advised against seeking retribution, while others criticized the use of internet-circulated content as a defense for making offensive public remarks.