#SHOWBIZ: Harith Iskander on past controversies: 'I don't live in regret'

KUALA LUMPUR: Stand-up comedian Harith Iskander maintains he does not harbor regret over past jokes that led to controversy, focusing instead on the lessons learned. Despite acknowledging missteps, the veteran performer asserts he does not dwell on what he calls "spilt milk." Instead, he emphasizes learning from mistakes as a vital part of growth.

Harith told the New Straits Times, "I don t regret anything, simply because I learn from my mistakes." Claiming he wouldn't dwell on past actions, he explains, "I wouldn't go, Oh s***, I shouldn't have done that, because then I wouldn't have learnt anything." The comedian admits his approach to material creation has changed following the controversies, stating, "Oh yes, I ve gotten into trouble many times.

I'm far more cautious now." He highlights the importance of knowing the context as a vital lesson. Regarding a potential increase in audience sensitivity, Harith suggests the backlash often comes from "keyboard warriors" rather than genuine comedy fans, as these are individuals who do not attend live shows. The comedian has experienced a series of legal and public controversies, including a defamation lawsuit filed by Datin Seri Rosmah Mansor over alleged mocking and body-shaming remarks during a performance in Melaka.

Additionally, he faced a RM10,000 fine for a social media post referencing a coffee shop menu item that mocked a broader controversy surrounding ham and cheese sandwiches. The backlash from these incidents was so severe that it forced the cancellation of Harith's scheduled performance at Dewan Filharmonik Petronas.