A film director and production house has turned to the civil court to overturn the government's ban on the controversial movie 'Mentega Terbang'.

Khairi Anwar and Meng Kheng Entertainment are challenging the prohibition order gazetted against the film.

In a media statement today, Lawyers for Liberty director Zaid Malek confirmed the filing of the judicial review application at the Kuala Lumpur High Court on Sept 1.

The lawyer said that the legal action targeted Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail and the federal government.

"The applicants are seeking orders to quash the decision of the home minister, to compel him to revoke the gazette dated Sept 1, 2023 and for a declaration that Section 26 of Film Censorship 2002 is unconstitutional," Zaid said.

He added that the judicial review leave application is fixed for court hearing on Jan 31 next year.

'Mentega Terbang' was perceived by certain quarters to be a threat to Islam.

The film, which initially aired on the streaming service Viu before it was taken down, tells the story of 15-year-old Aishah as she grapples with questions about life after death in various religions after her mother is diagnosed with a terminal illness.

However, the Muslim Consumers’ Association and Putra found it offensive that the movie showcased a Muslim seeking answers in other faiths.

Following police reports lodged against the movie, the authority launched an investigation and summoned Mentega Terbang's director, producer and actors to get their statements recorded.

Criticisms against the movie escalated when Khairi received death threats. His car was splashed with black and red paint.

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