Politicians should fight politically, not use me as a shield, says comedian Ajak
Translated from Malay, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Malaysian comedian and radio host Ajak (Mohd Hanaffi Razak) expressed frustration over his name being linked to political disputes.
- He stated he is not involved in politics and asked that he not be used as a "shield" in political rivalries.
- Ajak emphasized that he and his friend Shahrol Shiro have already reconciled over a past issue, and he has moved on.
Malaysian comedian and radio personality Mohd Hanaffi Razak, widely known as Ajak, has voiced his dismay after his name became entangled in political polemics. The 40-year-old entertainer is frustrated that a resurfaced old video involving him is being used in current political debates. Ajak insists he is not a political figure and pleaded with parties involved not to use him as a "shield" in their disputes. "If they are politicians, they should fight politically. Don't use me as a shield," he stated, feeling the narrative is being manipulated to cause confusion by focusing only on the initial part of a story that has since been resolved. He clarified that he prefers to stay out of such matters, finding the political arena complex and often disingenuous. Ajak also stressed that he and his friend Shahrol Shiro have already forgiven each other for the past incident that brought them together. "I don't mind if people want to look for rotten fruit, but they must also mention that there are good fruits still hanging on the branch. The matter has been resolved. We have forgiven each other. When I have forgiven, I have forgotten and moved on," he explained. He acknowledged that he cannot control public perception, especially after a recent meeting with Shahrol sparked varied reactions online. While admitting that everyone has moments of anger, Ajak reiterated his commitment to forgiveness and moving past grievances. He stated that his meeting with Shahrol was simply to see his friend, as he doesn't fully grasp the intricacies of politics where smiles can hide rivalries. He concluded that he doesn't aspire to enter politics or champion any party, though he believes all citizens should understand political processes for the nation's well-being. "But to jump in and champion any party, that is not my ambition. But it doesn't mean I don't love my race or my country," he added.
Originally published by Utusan Malaysia in Malay. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.