Latest news with #Haoren
Hype Malaysia
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Hype Malaysia
Steady Gang's Tomato & Haoren Apologise; Cooperating With MCMC Over 'Negaraku' Controversy
While August is Malaysia's Independence month, it seems that there have been many issues involving our national identity. Recently, influencers and Steady Gang members Haoren (朱浩仁) and Tomato (李明鴻) found themselves in hot water for disrespecting the national anthem. For those unaware of the issue, it stemmed from a video that Haoren posted over the weekend. In the video taken at an award ceremony, the influencer, along with his Steady Gang group mate Tomato, were singing along to the national anthem, 'Negaraku'. However, their gestures and playful antics while singing the anthem sparked outrage, with many netizens calling it disrespectful. Haoren quickly deleted the video and issued an apology. Unfortunately, the apology didn't seem to fix the situation. The video also caught the attention of local politicians, who then called for authorities to investigate the influencer. At the same time, many netizens were also calling for authorities to take action against Tomato, who at this point have yet to issue an apology. A couple of days after the issue first blew up, the two media personalities took to their socials to once again apologise for the controversy. In his apology letter written in Mandarin and Malay, Tomato expressed regret over his actions. The public figure, whose real name is Lai Hong Ming, also said that he will take responsibility and learn from his mistakes. Meanwhile, Haoren's second apology, also written in Mandarin and Malay, included an explanation for why he took the video. According to the influencer, he wanted to preserve a memory of the event. Still, he had no intention of disrespecting the 'Negaraku'. Both Steady Gang members stated they're cooperating with the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) in its investigation. Netizens have since reacted to the two apology letters, thanking Haoren and Tomato for taking responsibility for their mistake. However, some voiced scepticism, arguing that this isn't the first time the two public figures had caused controversy. Since the MCMC investigation is still ongoing, it's unknown whether Haoren and Tomato would receive punishment for the controversy. Regardless, we hope everything goes well for them and that they will reflect on their mistakes. Sources: Instagram (1)(2)
The Sun
11-08-2025
- Entertainment
- The Sun
Influencer apologises for filming during national anthem
MALAYSIAN entertainer and social media influencer Haoren has publicly apologised following widespread criticism over his conduct during the national anthem at a recent awards ceremony. The controversy erupted when footage surfaced showing Haoren recording his companions on his mobile device while 'Negaraku' was being performed at the '8TV CUCKOO Starfluencer Awards 2025'. The clip quickly circulated across social media platforms, generating significant backlash from netizens who viewed his actions as disrespectful to the national symbol. In response to the mounting criticism, Haoren released a formal statement via Facebook on August 10, acknowledging his inappropriate behavior and expressing genuine remorse for his actions during the solemn moment. The video has since been taken down. The influencer characterised his conduct as 'inappropriate in both occasion and etiquette,' recognising that he should have participated in singing the anthem with proper reverence rather than engaging in casual recording activities. 'I deeply regret the discomfort that my immature behaviour caused the public,' Haoren stated in his public apology, taking full responsibility for the incident that sparked widespread discussion about respect for national symbols. The social media personality demonstrated understanding of the controversy's deeper implications, acknowledging that Malaysia's national anthem represents far more than a ceremonial song. He emphasised his recognition that 'Negaraku' embodies profound historical significance and emotional resonance for all Malaysian citizens. Haoren indicated that he has engaged in serious self-reflection following the incident, promising to modify his behavior at future formal and public gatherings. His commitment extends to exercising greater mindfulness and appropriate conduct when attending official events or ceremonies. The apology statement concluded with Haoren expressing gratitude toward the public for their constructive criticism and patience during the controversy. He specifically thanked those who provided feedback and guidance, viewing their responses as valuable reminders about proper conduct during national ceremonies. 'I sincerely thank the public for their reminders and understanding. Once again, I offer my sincerest apologies to all my friends who care about me for the inconvenience this incident has caused,' the influencer added, extending his regret to supporters who may have been affected by the negative attention. The incident highlights ongoing discussions about appropriate behavior during national ceremonies and the responsibilities of public figures and influencers in maintaining respectful conduct during formal occasions.
Hype Malaysia
11-08-2025
- Entertainment
- Hype Malaysia
(Video) Steady Gang's Haoren Apologises For Disrespecting 'Negaraku' During Recent Event
It's common knowledge to remain still during the national anthem to show respect. Unfortunately, local influencer and Steady Gang member Haoren (朱浩仁) received flak after sharing a video of him fooling around while 'Negaraku' was playing at an event. On the evening of 8th August 2025 (Friday), Haoren and his Steady Gang members attended the 8TV Starfluencer Event. While the media personality won several awards that night, his wins were overshadowed by the controversy over his social media post. According to reports, Haoren had posted a video of himself and his groupmates singing 'Negaraku' when it played at the event hall before the award ceremony. It's worth noting that filming oneself singing along to the national anthem isn't an issue. However, the video sparked widespread criticism because Haoren and his groupmate, Tomato, appeared to be fooling around while 'Negaraku' was playing. Their actions prompted many netizens to call them out for disrespecting the national anthem. After the issue went viral, Haoren deleted the video and issued an apology. In his statement, the influencer admitted his mistake and said he deeply regrets his inappropriate behaviour. He added, 'I am well aware that the national anthem is not only a symbol of the country, but also carries solemn historical significance and the emotional identification of all citizens.' Haoren also promised to reflect on his actions and behave appropriately at future events. Haoren's apology was met with mixed reactions. Some thanked him for being accountable for his actions and urged him to learn from his mistakes. However, others lamented that the influencer should've known better than to fool around when singing 'Negaraku', arguing that it's basic etiquette to respect the national anthem. Some also quipped that he should be more mature, especially since he's already a father and has many young fans. Meanwhile, Tomato has yet to issue a statement on the matter. Regardless, we hope Haoren and the rest of Steady Gang will reflect on this issue and learn to be more respectful of the national anthem and other expressions of a country's identity. Here's a recording of the now-deleted video: Sources: China Press, Facebook, Instagram
The Star
11-08-2025
- Politics
- The Star
Influencer apologises for filming during national anthem, Dr Akmal urges authorities to take action
KUALA LUMPUR: Social media influencer 'Haoren' has apologised after being caught using his phone to record a video while the national anthem was being played. In a post on Facebook, he admitted the act, seen in a now-viral clip, and acknowledged that it was inappropriate. 'I should have sung the national anthem with the utmost respect. My actions caused unease, and I apologise for it,' he said. Haoren added that he had reflected on the incident and pledged to be more mindful in the future. The incident drew criticism from social media users and Umno Youth chief Datuk Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh, who urged authorities to take action against Haoren for disrespecting the Negaraku. Dr Akmal said the national anthem was a symbol of unity and pride, and any act that undermines its sanctity should not be taken lightly. He stressed that Malaysians, regardless of background, must show full respect when the anthem is played, as a mark of loyalty to the country. 'Using a phone to record or being distracted during the Negaraku sends the wrong message, especially to the younger generation,' Dr Akmal said.
New Straits Times
11-08-2025
- Politics
- New Straits Times
Influencer 'Haoren' apologises for filming during Negaraku
KUALA LUMPUR: An influencer known as "Haoren" has apologised for using his phone to record a video while the national anthem was being played. In a social media post, Haoren said his actions, which were captured in a now-viral clip, were inappropriate. "I should have sung the national anthem with the utmost respect. My actions caused unease, and I apologise for it," he said. Haoren added that he has reflected on the incident and promised to be more mindful in the future. The influencer has come under fire from social media users and Umno Youth chief Datuk Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh, who called for action against Haoren for disrespecting the Negaraku.
