"No problem": Influencers back radio hosts in dance controversy

KUALA LUMPUR – A controversial video circulating on social media, featuring three local radio hosts allegedly mocking a religious festival, has sparked widespread attention.

Social media influencer SK Sambasivan defended the hosts, asserting their actions were not a significant issue.

"I am proud to see our Muslim and Malay friends dancing so well. That is not a problem. Why must every matter be linked to religious sensitivities?

"Malaysia is a multicultural country," he said in a TikTok video yesterday.

Sambasivan clarified that the phrase 'Vel Vel' used in the video was symbolic and lacked the negative connotations some attributed to it.

"We should educate the Hindu community first before correcting others," he said.

Another Indian influencer, who used her business's TikTok account, Farmasieverlife, also questioned the tendency to judge without fully understanding Thaipusam practices.

"If you want to blame others, fix ourselves first. Are we sure what we do during Thaipusam is right?" she asked, explaining that vibrant music and dance are integral to the celebration.

On Tuesday, it was reported that police were investigating local radio staff regarding the viral video.

A complaint alleges that several individuals from the radio station chanted 'Vel Vel' while a man performed a dance.

Previously, a video circulated showing three individuals—apologising for the controversial video that allegedly mocked a Hindu Kavadi dance.

The station's management has suspended the three hosts pending the investigation's outcome.

The Communications Ministry has directed the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) to conduct a thorough investigation into the case.