In a statement uploaded on Asri’s Facebook page last night, the team said these videos included one that was recorded 11 years ago.
“The video was a recording of a talk for the Muslims about the Islamic teachings on khurafat (superstition), but the focus was not on the teachings of Hinduism.
“The talk was (made) before Dr Maza took up the post as Perlis Mufti around 11 years ago,” it said.
Asri is also known as Dr Maza.
The video in question shows Asri making remarks on gods in ancient Hindu mythology.
Hindraf took offence over one particular remark, but Asri’s team said Hindraf was spinning it and that Hindus should listen carefully to what Asri had actually said in the talk.
“In this matter, Hindraf had an ill intention. Doesn’t Hindraf understand the Malaysian language? If you browse the internet and look at various films (available), what Dr Maza spoke about was almost accurate.”
The team posted a statement by Hindraf inviting the public for an “emergency meeting” tonight to discuss Asri’s “insult”.
Asri’s team also accused Hindraf of incitement by purposely misinterpreting the video to play up on the sentiment of Hindus.
“We, Dr Maza’s team and the Muslims who jointly oppose Hindraf, ask for the government to take strict action against Hindraf’s continuous provocation that will create chaos in the country.
“The Muslims and right-minded citizens should avoid Hindraf and any political party that works with it,” said the team.