Singapore-born comedian Jocelyn Chia, known for her recent stand-up comedy show in the United States, has sparked a significant debate on the boundaries of comedic material.
In a video clip lasting 89 seconds, shared on Instagram, Chia humorously addressed the ongoing rivalry between Singapore and Malaysia.
She playfully made references to the separation of Singapore from Malaysia in 1965, joking about Singapore’s subsequent development into a First World country while suggesting that Malaysia remained a developing nation.
Made fun of tragedy
Chia’s comedic set also included a reference to the Malaysia Airlines plane MH370, which went missing in March 2014 en route to Beijing from Kuala Lumpur.
Acknowledging the sensitive nature of the tragedy, Chia stated that certain jokes, like the disappearance of the plane, do not “land well”.
The video clip received criticism from Malaysians, with radio broadcaster Kudsia Kahar expressing offense and asserting that a good stand-up comedian should avoid turning tragedies into jokes.
M’sians hit back
Malaysian comedian and actor Harith Iskander also shared his perspective, noting the “insensitivity” demonstrated by Chia’s joke regarding the MH370 tragedy.
While emphasizing the importance of comedians having freedom of expression, Iskander stressed the need for sensitivity and empathy, particularly when dealing with personal or tragic topics.
My response to Jocelyn Chia's clip which has riled up Malaysians pic.twitter.com/dbP1GBz1As
— Harith Iskander (@HarithIskander) June 7, 2023
Others expressed concern that Chia’s set could upset the families of the passengers and crew members who were on board the missing plane. Malaysia’s Foreign Minister, Zambry Abdul Kadir, condemned Chia’s actions, describing them as lacking sensitivity and empathy toward Malaysians and the victims’ families.
Chia responded to criticism on her Instagram page, stating that comedy can be derived from tragedy over time, suggesting that enough time had passed since the MH370 incident. She emphasized that the determining factor for comedy is whether a topic or material can be made funny.
Vivian Balakrishnan responds
In response to the controversy, Singapore’s Foreign Minister, Vivian Balakrishnan, condemned Chia’s remarks, expressing apologies for any offense and hurt caused to Malaysians. Balakrishnan highlighted that Chia’s statements did not represent the views of Singaporeans and reaffirmed the importance of the close ties between Singapore and Malaysia.
I am appalled by her horrendous statements. She certainly does not speak for Singaporeans. We treasure our ties with family and friends in Malaysia, and are sorry for the offence and hurt caused to all Malaysians.
— Vivian Balakrishnan (@VivianBala) June 7, 2023
Singapore’s High Commissioner to Malaysia, Vanu Gopala Menon, also apologized for Chia’s comments, acknowledging their hurtful nature.
Menon stressed that the Singaporean government does not support words or actions that cause harm or hurt, and he extended a sincere apology to all Malaysians for Chia’s offensive remarks.
He emphasized that Chia’s comments were unhelpful and undermined the strong and multi-faceted relationship between Singapore and Malaysia.