Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia -
Malaysia has banned an Ultraman comic book because it uses the word “Allah” to describe the Japanese action hero.
The Home Ministry says the Malay edition of “Ultraman, The Ultra Power” contains elements that can undermine public security and societal morals.
It says Ultraman is an idol for many Muslim children and equating the lead character, Ultraman King, with Allah will confuse them and shake their faith. It warns such irresponsible use of the word “Allah” can provoke Muslims and threaten public safety.
It said on Friday that other Ultraman comic books were unaffected and that only this edition is banned.
The government says “Allah”, which is the Arabic word for God, is exclusive for Malay Muslims, who account for about 60 percent of Malaysia's 30 million people. - Sapa-AP