Controversy As Marvel Writer Sneak's Anti-Ahok Message

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Marvel has taken a disciplinary action against the comic artist.

Brilio.net/en - Indonesian Marvel comic writer Ardian Syaf has triggered a commotion among Indonesian netizens related his work, the first issue of 'X-Men Gold'. Ardian involves symbols related to current religious and political issues in Indonesia.

The symbols in the comic are referred to several elements related to Jakarta Governor Governor Basuki Tjahaja Purnama or Ahok's blasphemy allegation case.

In one panel, "QS 5:51" appears on a shirt worn by Colossus character. Many believe it stands for Al Maidah verse 51 of the Quran.

Panel from X-Men Gold #1, Marvel Comics

Another symbol "212" also appears on a scene where Kitty Pryde, a Jewish character talks in front of people as one of them also wear a shirt with "51" on it.

Panel from X-Men Gold #1, Marvel Comics

From our investigation on Ardian's social media account, it is found that the artist himself was impressed with the march. He did it intentionally, admitting to draw and add the message on the comic right after coming home after joining the rally himself.

Marvel itself was unaware to the Ardian's intention and has issued a statement regarding to the incident.

The mentioned artwork in X-Men Gold #1 was inserted without knowledge behind its reported meanings. These implied references do not reflect the views of the writer, editors or anyone else at Marvel and are in direct opposition of the inclusiveness of Marvel Comics and what the X-Men have stood for since their creation. This artwork will be removed from subsequent printings, digital versions, and trade paperbacks and disciplinary action is being taken, wrote Marvel on their official statement as quoted from ComicBook.com.

Last year, thousands of Muslim took to the street to march against Ahok, a Christian and a Chinese-Indonesian Jakarta Governor over blasphemy allegations regarding the use of the Quran during his visit to Thousand Islands regency on Sept. 27, 2016.

The 212 is the number used to denote the mass protest held on December 2, 2016 with several rallies have taken place after that.

(brl/red)