Comedian Defends MH370 Joke, Deeming Reaction ‘Absurd’

UPDATE


Jun 14, 2023 5:31 PM CDT

Joceyln Chia has criticized Malaysian authorities for involving Interpol in their investigation of a joke she made about missing flight MH370. The American comedian explained to the BBC that her joke, which was taken out of context in a clip posted on social media, is considered harsher and edgier in the United States, where stand-up comedy has a long history. Chia humorously mentioned that she would have loved to see the expression on the Interpol officer’s face upon receiving the request for assistance, but Interpol has confirmed that no such request has been received.

Jun 14, 2023 1:31 AM CDT

US comedian Jocelyn Chia is facing criticism in Malaysia after making a joke about MH370, the Malaysia Airlines flight that went missing in 2014. Malaysia is now seeking Interpol’s involvement in investigating the matter. Chia, who is both American and Singaporean, made the joke during a stand-up set in New York, according to the BBC. The joke referred to the rivalry between Singapore and Malaysia, with Chia stating that Malaysia’s airplanes “cannot fly” compared to Singapore, which is considered a “first-world country.”

Chia continued, “Malaysian Airlines going missing not funny huh? Some jokes don’t land.” The video of the joke was shared on TikTok and quickly caused outrage in Malaysia. Singapore has issued an apology, although Chia herself has not. In response, Malaysia is investigating possible violations of its laws regarding incitement and offensive online content. It remains unclear whether Malaysia has the jurisdiction to request Chia’s location and full identity from Interpol, or whether Interpol will cooperate, or if Malaysia plans to formally charge Chia.

In an interview with CNN, Chia explained that she has performed the joke multiple times without any issues, but the shortened clip uploaded on TikTok lacks context. She acknowledges that sharing the clip outside of a comedy club context was risky. The owner of the Comedy Cellar, where Chia performed, also noted the difference between a comedy club setting and watching a small screen over morning coffee. (Read more Malaysia stories.)