Malaysia

Social media user apologises after controversial ‘Back to School’ Zumba video sparks public outrage

A social media account holder issues a public apology following the viral circulation of a video showing a Zumba session where participants in school uniform attire without proper covering

Updated 5 months ago · Published on 19 Jan 2026 9:21AM

Social media user apologises after controversial ‘Back to School’ Zumba video sparks public outrage
Zumba session prompts both police and religious authorities to launch investigations - January 19, 2026

A SOCIAL media account holder has publicly apologised after a Zumba session themed “Back to School” went viral for featuring participants dressed in school uniforms in a manner deemed inappropriate, sparking widespread criticism on social media.

The incident occurred at Dewan Bukit Badong, Kuala Selangor, on Friday and was captured in a live broadcast on TikTok without prior consent or knowledge of the organisers.

In a recorded apology posted on Threads on Sunday, the individual said the broadcast was unplanned and spontaneous.

“I want to apologise for what happened earlier regarding the incident with wearing a hijab but no skirt and all that. Actually, I want to apologise to the management of Dewan Bukit Badong because this morning we did a Zumba session at the school,” the individual said.

He added that the organisers were unaware of the live broadcast. “Everything happened spontaneously and perhaps due to my own mistake, but in any case, I apologise,” he said.

The video, which circulated widely on TikTok and Facebook, showed one participant wearing a hijab and school uniform without a skirt, while another wore only leggings.

Investigations revealed that one participant reportedly removed the skirt for ease of movement during the session.

Kuala Selangor district police chief Superintendent Azaharudin Tajudin confirmed that a police report has been filed and an investigation opened.

The case is being examined under Section 504 of the Penal Code, Section 14 of the Minor Offences Act 1955, and Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998.

“The programme was themed ‘Back to School’. However, in the viral recording, there was an individual in a hijab and school uniform without a skirt, and another in just leggings,” Azaharudin said. “The vehicle and video material were seized for further investigation.”

Religious authorities have also taken note of the incident.

The Selangor Islamic Religious Department (JAIS) is investigating and intends to take strict legal action. Its director, Datuk Mohd Shahzihan Ahmad, said: “This is regarded as highly disrespectful and contains elements that can be linked to inappropriate behaviour in public and actions that may tarnish the image of Islam.”

JAIS has urged the public to assist in the investigation by providing information via its hotline at 1800-88-2424.

The episode has reignited discussions on social media etiquette, the appropriateness of content in public venues, and the responsibilities of live broadcasters during public events. - January 19, 2026

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