A 27-year-old Muslim woman in Malaysia has been detained after allegedly livestreaming herself eating and drinking on TikTok during the fasting month of Ramadan.
The incident, which reportedly took place at around 6.45pm on Feb. 22, has drawn significant attention online after clips of the livestream began circulating on social media platforms. Authorities in Negeri Sembilan confirmed that the woman was later apprehended and is now under investigation.
According to local reports, the Negeri Sembilan Islamic Religious Affairs Department (JHEAINS) took action after reviewing footage of the broadcast, in which the woman was seen interacting with viewers while openly consuming food and beverages.
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JHEAINS director Mohd Asri Abdullah stated that enforcement officers examined the video before moving to detain the individual in Kuala Pilah on Feb. 24. During the livestream, she was reportedly seen wearing a headscarf, holding a drink and laughing while responding to comments from followers.
The case is being investigated under Section 50 of Negeri Sembilan’s Syariah Criminal Enactment 1992, which addresses acts considered insulting to or bringing disrepute upon Islam. If found guilty under Syariah law, individuals may face penalties determined by the religious courts in the state.
Authorities emphasised that the enforcement action was taken following public complaints and the viral spread of the video online. Although the original livestream has since been removed, excerpts were reportedly reshared on other platforms, further fuelling debate.
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In response to criticism from viewers during the livestream, the woman reportedly claimed she had recently given birth and was undergoing postpartum confinement, a traditional recovery period observed by many women after childbirth.
Commenters questioned why she was eating publicly during fasting hours, to which she allegedly replied that those who were uncomfortable could simply stop watching. Her remarks, captured in snippets circulating online, prompted mixed reactions, with some expressing outrage while others urged compassion given her stated condition.
Religious officials have since reminded Muslims to remain mindful of sensitivities during Ramadan, particularly in public and on digital platforms. They reiterated that observance of fasting is a key pillar of the holy month and that public conduct should reflect respect for religious practices.
The case has sparked broader discussions across Malaysia about social media responsibility, religious compliance and the role of enforcement agencies in monitoring online behaviour. As investigations continue, the incident highlights the intersection of faith, digital expression and legal accountability in the region.