Sharnaaz Ahmad Rebukes Boy Hamzah Over Remarks Belittling Malaysia

Malaysian actor Sharnaaz Ahmad has criticised Indonesian actor Boy Hamzah Notonegoro for claiming Malaysia would not exist without Indonesia, warning against dragging race, culture and religion into the ongoing online feud.

In an Instagram video, Sharnaaz said such remarks should not damage longstanding ties between entertainers, citing his friendships with Indonesian actors Yayan Ruhian, Iko Uwais and Cecep Arif Rahman.

He also acknowledged that social media users from both countries had gone overboard.

Boy's remarks came amid Malaysian calls to boycott Indonesian grooming brand Kahf.

He argued that Malaysia's smaller population meant the boycott would have little impact, before invoking the Melaka Sultanate's origins to claim Malaysia owed its existence to Indonesia.

The latest flare-up followed Kahf's "Hati-Hati Beda Level" Threads post, which placed Indonesia's flag above Malaysia's and those of several other countries.

Reportedly linked to Indonesia's football success, the graphic was criticised for belittling neighbouring nations.

Sharnaaz also rebuked Kahf for posting provocative content through a business account.

While urging users to move forward after its apology, he stressed that national identity should not become a target and called on both sides to respect their differences.