Kuala lumpur: Costumes representing anime, video game, and movie characters have become a common sight at cosplay events organised around the capital. Characters from series such as Naruto, Sailor Moon, Frieren: Beyond Journey's End, Genshin Impact, as well as superheroes from DC and Marvel comics, are among the most popular choices for participants. However, a few participants choose to wear Nazi and Imperial Japanese military uniforms from the Second World War era, complete with replica weapons to complement their costumes.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, although regarded as an expression of personal interest and hobby, for the police, the wearing of costumes and the use of certain accessories is actually subject to legal provisions. Bukit Aman Crime Prevention and Community Safety Department director Datuk Noor Hisam Nordin stated that wearing uniforms resembling those of security forces, including foreign soldiers, at cosplay events is not automatically an offence. However, the act could become an offence if done with the intention, or under circumstances, that mislead the public into believing the individual involved is an actual military member, with such cases being investigated under Section 140 of the Penal Code.

Noor Hisam further explained that if the costume is accompanied by imitation weapon props, such as rifles, replica pistols, or airsoft guns without a valid licence, the individual may be investigated under Section 36 of the Arms Act 1960 (Act 206). Participants must also pay attention to the ban on carrying imitation firearms that resemble real weapons, scheduled sharp weapons including the keris, machetes, spears, axes, brass knuckles, and samurai swords, even if they are replicas.

During the first six months of this year, one investigation paper was opened under Section 140 of the Penal Code following an incident in Gombak, Selangor, after a viral video showed a man wearing clothing resembling that of security personnel while carrying what was believed to be an imitation weapon. However, no arrests were made. For Section 36 of Act 206, a total of 63 investigation papers were opened, resulting in 95 arrests during the same period.

Noor Hisam emphasized that ignorance of the law cannot be used as an excuse to avoid legal action and advised cosplay participants and organisers to always be careful and ensure that the wearing of costumes and the use of props do not violate the law. He encouraged cosplay and anime event organisers to provide participants with clear guidelines on costumes and accessories that are not allowed and to display them at registration areas. This move is not intended to restrict the creativity of the cosplay community but rather to ensure that the activity can continue in a safe, orderly, and law-abiding environment.

Meanwhile, an anime and cosplay event organiser known as Lman stated that such events focus more on anime, manga, and video games rather than military attire. Lman added that organisers emphasize compliance with the law by setting guidelines prohibiting participants from bringing sharp objects or replica weapons that could pose a security risk.

For a 19-year-old private university student known as Daniel, the military uniform he wore was not intended to impersonate a soldier or promote any particular ideology. Instead, he wore it because of his interest in history and historical reenactment. Similarly, a private sector employee identified as Muiz, 27, and another participant known as San, 27, shared their perspectives on wearing historical attire and following event guidelines.