PUTRAJAYA, Sept 15 — National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang has urged the authorities to investigate the controversy over a joke involving Catholic priests and nuns during a speech at the 2026 Umno General Assembly.
He said a proper investigation should be conducted to determine whether any laws had been breached, including Sections 298 and 298A of the Penal Code and relevant provisions of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998.
Aaron said that regardless of intent, jokes involving religious institutions, religious figures, sacred texts or the beliefs of any faith should never be made and must not be taken lightly.
“Religion is not a laughing matter. Matters that are sacred and respected by a community should not be ridiculed, turned into sexual innuendo or used solely to elicit laughter and applause,” he said in a statement today.
He said such acts could hurt the feelings of religious followers and potentially undermine the harmony that had been built within the country’s multi-religious and multicultural society.
Aaron stressed that the freedom to speak, engage in politics or make jokes did not give anyone the freedom to violate the religious sensitivities and beliefs of others.
He said this principle must apply to everyone, regardless of religion, race, status or political affiliation.
Aaron also acknowledged the apology by the individual involved and expressed hope that the controversy would serve as a lesson to all leaders, speakers and the wider community to be more careful in choosing their words, particularly when touching on sensitive matters.
He said this was also in line with the fifth principle of the Rukun Negara, Kesopanan dan Kesusilaan (Courtesy and Morality), which requires every citizen to uphold good manners in their speech and conduct.
“In a multi-religious and multicultural country, this principle is not merely a saying, but a vital foundation for ensuring that differences are respected, sensitivities are safeguarded and harmony continues to be preserved,” he said.
