PUTRAJAYA: Action could be taken against controversial artist Namewee (pic) over his recent Chinese New Year-themed video clip "Like A Dog", warned Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.

The Deputy Prime Minister said Namewee had caused several controversies in the past and escaped action, but warned that the music producer may not be so lucky this time.

“This individual (Namewee) had escaped action several times in the past. I just want to say that one day, action will be taken against him. It does not mean that if they have gotten away with it before, they will get away next time.

“Do not blame the authorities if action is taken against him.

“I am also concerned that there are ‘lone wolves’ or certain organisations that might want to take personal action against this individual,” said Dr Ahmad Zahid at a press conference here on Thursday (Feb 15).

There have been calls by groups, including the "Social Media Activists Association" for Namewee to be investigated over his video clip.

The association’s chairman Kamarudin Ahmad said scenes in the video, which featured Namewee and several dancers in dog masks, were deemed provocative as it was filmed in the vicinity of the Putra Mosque.

The dog theme in the video was in conjunction with the Chinese year of the dog.

“Our country is one that emphasises on harmony. We respect the differences in beliefs of every Malaysian. If an individual chooses to be provocative, then he cannot blame the authorities when action is taken against him,” said Dr Ahmad Zahid.

Earlier Dr Ahmad Zahid, who is also Home Minister, presented fire extinguishers to 612 tahfiz institutions in the country.

The event was held after he chaired a meeting with the special government task force on religious schools.