KOTA TINGGI: Police detained three Pan Asia International Run participants suspected of engaging in indecent and lewd behaviour during the fun run.
The event was organised in Bandar Penawar, Desaru between Oct 4 and 6.
The three men - a local and two foreigners aged between 39 and 70, were detained at a hotel at 10pm.
Johor police chief Datuk M.Kumar said the men were detained following allegations of inappropriate conduct during the run.
Police confiscated a red saree, a red skirt, silver cardboard cutouts, and a silver replica spear.
The runners, both men and women, donned red t-shirts, while some chose to wear lingerie and sarees. One participant was photographed wearing only a traditional Iban outfit called a Kelambi, which left his back exposed and revealed that he was shirtless.
Kumar said initial investigations revealed that the runners' actions were individual and was not set by run organisers.
The footage and pictures of the runners, including men who crossed dressed gained traction through social media posts, which sparked public outrage in Kota Tinggi.
The case is being investigated under Section 14 of the Minor Offences Act 1955 for insulting behaviour and Section 294 for obscene acts in public.
Both charges carry penalties including fines and possible imprisonment.
Kumar added the suspects were tested negative for drugs, and did not have prior criminal records.
The Pan Asia International Run 2024, organised by the Hash House Harriers, took place at the Lotus Desaru Hotel, here.
It was scheduled to continue across from Kota Tinggi, to Kulai and Seri Alam.
However, the event came under fire after video clips showing participants were widely shared on Facebook.
The post, uploaded by a local resident which went viral, sparked outrage in the predominantly Malay-Muslim area.
The post questioned the event's approval and expressed discontent over the participants' attire, which included rainbow socks, suggesting the involvement of LGBTQ+ individuals.
Further criticism was levelled at a performance held later that night, with some speculating alcohol was consumed during the event.
Kumar confirmed that the images and videos were linked to the Pan Asia Run, stressing that the investigation would be thorough.
In addition to the charges under the Minor Offences Act, he said investigations
under Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998, for improper use of network facilities, are also ongoing.
Those found guilty could face a fine of up to RM50,000, imprisonment of up to one year, or both.
He urged the public to refrain from speculating or spreading false information, warning that such actions could disrupt the investigation and threaten public order.
"We are currently identifying the other participants involved in the inappropriate behaviour and have called in the event organisers for questioning.
"Public peace and sensitivities, especially related to race and religion, are paramount, and we will not tolerate any actions that disturb the harmony of the community," he added.
Meanwhile Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi said the event was not organised by the state government.
In a statement released last night, he said investigation into a controversial run, had raised concerns over participants' inappropriate clothing.
"The Johor state government wishes to make it clear that it had no involvement in the organisation of this event. Neither the government nor any state agency granted permission or leniency for any activity that disrespects the sensitivities of Islam in Johor," he said.
The New Straits Times contacted the Pan Asia Run organisers.
The are expected to release a statement soon.