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"Babi" film producer claims trial for unauthorised production, promotion

21 Jul – Toh Han Boon, a producer of Namewee's controversial film, "Babi" has recently been charged for not obtaining a valid licence from National Film Development Corporation (FINAS) for the production and promotion of the said film last year.

The 35-year-old film producer pleaded not guilty in front of Magistrate Muhammad Iskandar Zainol, after being charged with an offence under Section 22 (1) of the Malaysian National Film Development Corporation Act 1981, punishable under Section 25 (1) of the same act.

The said incident allegedly happened at 6pm at No 18, Jalan PJU 7/8b, Mutiara Damansara, on 18 November 2020.

If convicted, Toh could be fined RM50,000 or jailed for not more than two years, or both.

Bail has been initially set at RM8,000, with the accused's passport handed over to the court. Toh will also have to report to the police station until the case is completed.

Namewee (middle) alongside Toh and the lawyer this morning
Namewee (middle) alongside Toh and the lawyer this morning
Toh being taken into the courtroom
Toh being taken into the courtroom

However, Toh's legal representative Haijan Omar objected to the condition proposed by the Deputy Public Prosecutor on the grounds that it was an unreasonable amount for the offence committed by his client who is not charged under the Penal Code - enabling the bail to be reduced to RM5,000.

Namewee's "Babi" has been marred by controversies since it was announced last year, with SENIMAN lodging a police report for supposedly having elements of racism that tarnishes the country's image.

The filmmaker had since denied the claims.

The movie itself has received several nominations at international film festivals including Taiwan's Golden Horse Awards and the Bangkok International Film Festival.

Namewee at the film's screening in Taiwan last year
Namewee at the film's screening in Taiwan last year
'Babi' was not released in Malaysia
'Babi' was not released in Malaysia

(Photo Source: Namewee Instagram, Harian Metro)