What specific elements on the book cover led to its ban?

Question

Accepted Answer

Book Cover Elements Leading to Ban

The book cover of Rebirth: Reformasi, Resistance, And Hope in New Malaysia was banned due to its depiction of two tigers atop a crocodile, styled as a headpiece, which authorities deemed to be a demeaning representation of the Malaysian state crest. This imagery drew significant attention and led to the lodging of at least 32 police reports. The publisher, GerakBudaya Enterprise Sdn Bhd’s Strategic Information and Research Development Centre, subsequently apologised, stating the cover was not intended to insult the national emblem, but the Home Ministry proceeded with the ban.
Tiger and Crocodile Depiction

The controversial element on the book cover was the visual composition featuring two tigers positioned above a crocodile. This arrangement was stylised to resemble a headpiece and was noted for its similarity to the Malaysian state crest. The specific manner in which these animals were depicted, in conjunction with their placement, led to accusations that the crest was being demeaned.
Allegations of Demeaning the State Crest

Authorities initiated an investigation following numerous public complaints, specifically citing the Emblems and Names (Prevention of Improper Use) Act, the Printing Presses and Publications Act, the Sedition Act, and the Communications and Multimedia Act. The core of the complaint revolved around the book cover's alleged disrespect towards the national symbol. The ban was officially imposed for the book's perceived demeaning portrayal of the Malaysian state crest.
Publisher's Response and Ban Proceeding

Following the outcry and the lodging of police reports, the publisher issued an apology. They clarified that the intention behind the cover design was not to insult or demean the Malaysian coat-of-arms. Despite this explanation and apology, the Home Ministry decided to proceed with the ban on the book, indicating that the visual representation itself was sufficient grounds for the action.

Reading history

Hide →

This history is cleared when the page is closed.

What specific elements on the book cover led to its ban?

Loading

Was this article helpful?

Helpful

Not helpful

Report an issue

1

0

0

Share with friends