Influencer apologises for filming during national anthem
Published on: Mon, Aug 11, 2025
By: FMT Reporters Text Size: PETALING JAYA: A Malaysian Chinese social media 'influencer' has apologised for taking out his phone to record a video as the national anthem was being played at an event. Choo Hao Ren ( pic ) acknowledged that his actions, caught on video in a clip that went viral, were inappropriate and that he should have sung the national anthem solemnly and with respect.
Advertisement In a statement on his social media pages, Choo said he was deeply sorry for his actions and promised to act more appropriately in such settings. Umno Youth chief Dr Akmal Saleh however called for punitive action against Choo for disrespecting the national anthem and the country. 'This is not a question of race or political party, but about how it's the responsibility of all Malaysians to respect this country. That's why we want such people to be punished severely,' he said in a Facebook post. 'It's not that we want to play up the issue, but the issue of respecting the country is more important,' the Melaka executive councillor added.
Advertisement In 2021, Choo also courted controversy after posting a video for a skin whitening product which featured a female social media influencer in brownface. He apologised for the clip and took it down after receiving a backlash online. - FMT * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available.
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