Malaysian Actress Draws Flak Over Remarks On Halloween, Christmas And Easter, Issues Video Apology

Malaysian actress Zahirah MacWilson has apologised after her remarks about Halloween, Christmas and Easter celebrations drew criticism online.

The controversy began after Zahirah shared a now-deleted IG Story describing the celebrations as "the most ridiculous celebration"

She also questioned certain traditions, including children dressing up in costumes and going trick-or-treating, while associating the celebrations with Satan, the supernatural and death.

In response, many netizens, particularly Malaysians, criticised her remarks, saying that even if she did not personally celebrate these occasions, she should still respect the religious beliefs and traditions of others.

Others suggested that a non-Muslim who made similar remarks about Muslim religious occasions would face serious backlash, highlighting what they perceived as a possible double standard.

However, responding to a news article about the controversy, Zahirah clarified on Threads that her "ridiculous" remark was specifically referring to Halloween.

Nonetheless, Zahirah posted an apology on IG, acknowledging that she had wrongly grouped the three celebrations together despite their distinct meanings.

She clarified that she had not intended to portray Christmas and Easter as celebrations associated with evil.

She added that she was "in the process of learning about faith and beliefs"

However, her apology drew further criticism, with some questioning her lack of awareness of other cultures despite living in Malaysia, while others mocked her for only learning after being called out.

Zahirah later issued a video apology, saying she had "carelessly lumped three separate celebrations together" and clarifying that she had not intended to portray them as "satanic or demonic"

Her video apology was met with support from some netizens, particularly those who identified as Muslims, who said they understood her intentions and accepted her apology.