Malaysian political influencer Syarul Ema Rena Abu Samah, widely known online as Ratu Naga, is under police investigation following allegations that she spread misinformation regarding the national anthem, Negaraku. Despite issuing a public apology, the situation has continued to draw attention and criticism.
The issue erupted after Ratu Naga uploaded a 3-minute-and-40-second video on social media, reportedly showing schoolchildren in Teluk Intan singing an anthem that she claimed was Negaraku sung in a non-Malay language. She suggested this was a violation of the National Anthem Act 1968, which prohibits any alteration to the lyrics or language of the anthem.
However, Hilir Perak district police chief ACP Bakri Zainal Abidin clarified that initial investigations have proven otherwise. The song in the video, according to the police, was the Perak state anthem—not Negaraku. The clip was recorded during a school event on June 6, 2024, celebrating the launch of the school’s Dragon Dance Club.
Perak state executive councillor Woo Kah Leong publicly denounced the influencer’s claim as “baseless” and called out the misinformation for stirring unnecessary controversy.
In response to the uproar, Syarul took to TikTok to issue an apology. She admitted to sharing the video but claimed it was online for only ten minutes before she removed it. She further alleged that supporters of the Pakatan Harapan coalition had downloaded and redistributed the video, leading to its viral spread. “I apologise for posting it, but after I deleted it, why did others share it for me? What’s their motive?” she said.
Despite her apology, police have confirmed receiving three formal complaints about the video. Authorities are currently assessing whether her actions constitute a breach of the National Anthem Act.
The ongoing investigation serves as a reminder of the legal and social responsibilities tied to online influence. While Ratu Naga’s apology may have addressed public outrage to some extent, the potential legal consequences still loom, highlighting the thin line between free expression and the spread of falsehoods in the digital age.
Information Source: Focus Malaysia
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