M'sian fans who hugged K-pop band B1A4 could face arrest for public indecency, Latest Entertainment News - The New Paper
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M'sian fans who hugged K-pop band B1A4 could face arrest for public indecency

The suggestive title for the K-pop boy band fan meeting video, that was uploaded on the Sukan Star TV Facebook page, read "Perempuan melayu dicabul atas pentas oleh mat kpop semalam” (Malay girls molested on stage by K-Pop artists last night).

After it was uploaded, all hell broke loose in Malaysia, after many netizens watched and shared the video of B1A4 hugging their three tudong-clad female fans during their fan meeting in Malaysia last Saturday (Jan 10).

Some were amused, others, appalled.

 

This week, things came to a head when a Federal Territories Islamic Department (JAWI) official told Malaysian media that the three girls would not be prosecuted for public indecency if they are underaged, but will be sent for rehabilitation instead, reported The Malay Mail Online.

According to the same report, JAWI said it is investigating the girls for public indecency and outraging Muslims.

The depatment also said it will investigate the matter under Section 29 of Syariah Criminal Offences (Federal Territories) Act 1997.

Section 29 of the Act allows for a fine of up to RM1,000 ($374) and imprisonment of no more than six months upon conviction.

The Malay Mail Online reported JAWI director, Paimuzi Yahya​, as telling Utusan Malaysia that the religious body will apply for an arrest warrant if the girls don't come forward to help with the investigation in a week's time.

According to Allkpop, B1A4's agency WM Entertainment spokesman responded to the controversy and told Star News: 

"It (the activities at the fan meeting) was done after prior approval from the event winners early on... The captured scene shows the members conducting a 'drama scene parody' segment with fans. The atmosphere at the venue was good, and considering the Muslim culture, we are aware that the MC asked for consent (from the winners) once more... It all depends on one's perspective. We will be more considerate of various cultures and customs in the future, and we will work hard to prepare a fan meeting that all global fans can enjoy. We will be more careful."

Source: The Malay Mail Online, Allkpop 

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