The state youth wing’s information chief Suffi Kamar said such remarks could disrupt the harmony in Malaysia’s diverse society.

“The driver had made provocative, false and slanderous remarks against Islam in the country,” he told reporters after lodging the report at the Gombak police station.

“There is no institution or individual that can force (non-Muslims) to live in accordance with Islamic teachings or nuances,” he said.

The report was lodged based on a viral 90-second video in which the driver claimed that Muslims in Malaysia were trying to impose Islamic rules, such as banning alcohol and gambling. His passengers are believed to be tourists.

Suffi said the driver, who could be perceived as a “mini ambassador” for the country, should not make such “misleading and harmful statements”, as these could negatively affect tourists’ perception of Malaysia.

“Worse, he was seen promoting Thailand in the video. There are other states up north, including Perlis, Perak and Kedah that he could have promoted,” Suffi said.

Suffi was joined by Iqman Iberahim, chairman of Khidmat Gombak, who said this incident should serve as a lesson for others to be more careful before making statements.

“We will leave this matter for the police to investigate,” Iqman said.