Joke using tragedy is most unbecoming
Chinadaily.com.cnJun 14, 2023
Malaysia Asks Interpol to Investigate Comedian Who Made MH370 Joke
Image copyright: Wikimedia Commons
The Facts
A US-based comic is under investigation by Malaysian authorities over a joke she made about the 2014 disappearance of Malaysia Airlines Flight MH370. Police chief Acryl Sani Abdullah Sani said Interpol will be asked to help find the location and full identity of the comic.
A video posted on social media depicted the comedian, Jocelyn Chia, performing a routine about the rivalry between Singapore and Malaysia at a New York City comedy club. When stating that Malaysian planes "cannot fly," Chia quipped: "Malaysian Airlines going missing not funny huh? Some jokes don't land," an apparent reference to Flight MH370.
The Spin
Narrative A
Chia's joke was deeply hurtful to the people of Malaysia. Comedians need to direct their jokes toward those that deserve scorn, not the victims of a terrible and unresolved tragedy. To upload this skit onto social media is also to slander the good name of Malaysia, which Chia seems to think is an acceptable thing to do. This was a tasteless act and appropriate consequences for her actions are understandable.
Narrative B
Malaysia's overreaction to a comedy routine has only increased the profile of the comedian and made the country look foolish for trying to get Interpol involved over a joke. Singapore and Malaysia have a friendly rivalry, and it is common for comedians to use the news and current events for comedic effects. This embarrassing move by Malaysia to try and "cancel" her freedom of expression has made more people aware of this joke and helped Chia sell more tickets.