Bikini-clad mermaid sales stunt triggers religious probe in Malaysia
South China Morning Post
by Joseph SipalanFebruary 23, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
A viral video of two men in Malaysia dressed in mermaid costumes during Ramadan has sparked a religious investigation in the conservative state of Kelantan. The 25-second clip showed one man wearing a rainbow-colored mermaid outfit with a bikini top, dancing near his drinks stall. The promotion, intended to attract customers during the busy Ramadan bazaar season, quickly drew outrage online, with many calling it "immoral" and offensive to Islamic values. Authorities in Kelantan’s religious affairs department have launched an investigation, stating that any violation of Sharia law or improper public behavior will be addressed.
The incident occurred in Pengkalan Chepa, a rural district in Kelantan, during the holy month of Ramadan, when many Malaysians are observing fasting and religious practices. While promotional stunts are common at Ramadan bazaars, this particular one crossed a line for many social media users, who accused the men of mocking Islam through their cross-dressing act. The video gained widespread attention, with thousands of views and comments on Malay social media platforms.
This case highlights the delicate balance between cultural expression and religious sensitivities in conservative Muslim-majority regions. In Kelantan, which adheres to strict Sharia law, public behavior is heavily scrutinized, especially during Ramadan, a time of spiritual reflection. The investigation underscores how authorities in such environments may view certain actions as disrespectful or blasphemous, even if they are intended for commercial gain.
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Originally published on South China Morning Post on 2/23/2026