Zulkifli condemns mocking jokes, says religious figures must not be ridiculed

JOKES that mock, insult, ridicule or demean others are strictly prohibited in Islam, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Dr Zulkifli Hasan said today, in response to controversial remarks involving a priest and a nun at the 2026 UMNO General Assembly (PAU).

Zulkifli said verse 11 of Surah Al-Hujurat clearly prohibits believers from insulting others, mocking them, using offensive nicknames and denigrating one another.

“In every speech or address, a leader should promote mature discourse focused on national development and strengthening unity, rather than allowing it to be coloured by sexual jokes, especially those touching on the sensitivities of other religious institutions.

“Making symbols or figures of any religion the subject of jokes demeans the standards of leadership conduct and tears at the interfaith harmony that has always been upheld in this country,” he said in a statement today.

Zulkifli was commenting on controversial remarks made by Sepang UMNO division chief Datuk Noorazli Said at PAU 2026 involving jokes about a priest and a nun.

He said leaders, as role models for society, particularly Muslims, should recognise and address such lapses appropriately.

“I urge all parties to refocus their attention on issues of importance to the people and cultivate public discourse based on wisdom, courtesy and high moral values,” he said.

Speaking to reporters after the pre-launch of the 66th International Al-Quran Recital and Memorisation Assembly (MTHQA) at the Kuala Lumpur International Trade and Exhibition Centre Kuala Lumpur today, Zulkifli reiterated that society should reject anything contrary to religious values.

“We have already given our view on this issue involving jokes that touch on religious sensitivities, and it is also in line with the views of religious scholars.

“What we need to do is focus on promoting discourse that builds character, strengthens unity and brings Malaysians together.

“We ask that anything contrary to these values not be done by Malaysians as a whole,” he said. - September 17, 2026