Controversial rapper-cum-filmmaker Namewee fears that his feature film 'Nasi Lemak 2.0' may be banned because of a recent demonstration against it in Perak.

In a statement today, Namewee said that he regrets the protest, and hopes that the authorities do not heed the call for the film to be banned.

"This movie received approval before shooting, and another approval before screening, I hope the authorities can respect their own decision, as well as my work," he said.

I namewee dialogue wtih cheah see kian 160910 02 n a Facebook posting, Namewee ( left ) added that he would be very disappointed if the film is indeed banned and urged movie-goers to watch it as soon as possible in case that does happen.

The film, now screening in major cinemas nationwide, was reported to have received backlash from groups claiming it has bad influence on young people.

Protesting outside a cinema in Ipoh, a group calling themselves Pertubuhan Gagasan Rakyat Didahulukan Perak had demanded that the government consider barring its further screening.

The NGO's president Faizal Afendi Hashim said protests will continue until the ban is in place.

Yesterday, Home Minister Hishammuddin Hussein said that those who are unhappy with the film are welcome to lodge complaints.

No quick judgement, please

Nasi Lemak 2.0 producer Fred Chong, however, urged Malaysians to understand the true meaning of the film before passing judgment.

NONE The makers of the film, featuring famed songstress Adibah Noor and celebrated comedian Afdlin Shauki, claim that it actually celebrates the diversity of Malaysia and is line with the 1Malaysia concept.

Namewee, whose real name is Wee Chee Meng, had earlier failed to obtain a grant from the Information, Culture and Communications Ministry for the film.

Minister Rais Yatim said this is because the filmmaker was "involved in activities that go against Malaysian norms and values".

Wee first gained notoriety with his controversial rendition of the national anthem Negara-ku in his rap song ‘I Love My Country Negarakuku' in 2007.

He also faced difficulties in promoting his anti-racism song Nah! as a result of Malay-rights NGO Perkasa demonstrating against his promotional tour.