'Un-Islamic' Despacito silenced by Malaysian censors

Denouncing the lyrics of hit Spanish-language single by Puerto Rican singer Luis Fonsi, Islamic party Amanah, argued that "many young children were singing the song without understanding the words." Spanish is not commonly used in Malaysia, where English, Malay, and several Chinese and Indian dialects are spoken.

Bemused Malaysians took to social media to highlight songs with seemingly innocuous lyrics that have slipped past the censors and ruled the airwaves. These include "Milkshake" by Kelis, "Whistle" by Flo Rida, or the 1997 hit "Barbie Girl" by Aqua.

Some local websites provided helpful lists of songs that should instead be taken off air for excessive airplay. This includes "Bang Bang" by Ariana Granda, Jessie J and Nicki Minaj, which one website underscored, "is not about gunshots."

Sanitized versions of songs containing colorful language have also enjoyed airplay. For example, Cee Lo Green's "F*** You" became the more appropriate "Forget You."

Censorship is not limited to sex, drugs, alcohol or profanity. The word "Mazel Tov" (Hebrew for "good luck") from the Black Eyed Peas' "I Gotta Feeling" is censored in Malaysia during airplay. Malaysia does not recognize the state of Israel, has no diplomatic ties and prohibits its citizens from traveling to the country.

The mention of hallelujah in Justin Bieber's "As Long As You Love Me" was also cut by Malaysian censors - although Hozier's "Take Me To Church" was allowed to be aired. One local website quoted ex-state radio DJs in Malaysia as saying that as long as lyrics remain "vague enough," they'll pass muster.

Lady Gaga’s "Born This Way" which contains the line "No matter gay, straight or bi, lesbian, transgendered life, I'm on the right track, baby" was deemed "offensive when viewed against Malaysia's social and religious observances." It drew not just the singer's ire but also that of Malaysian LGBT groups.

In 2011, the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission banned "Undilah" (Malay for "Go vote") because its content allegedly "offends certain segments of society." Mixing Malay, English and Mandarin, the song's video featured local personalities (and some opposition politicians) urging Malaysians to register and go vote.

In 2004, Malay songs containing English lyrics were banned after the government was criticized for allowing them to "corrupt the purity and sanctity of the Malay language." Ironically, the Despacito phenomenon has spawned covers and parodies worldwide, including "Incognito", a witty Malay version with English words about a jilted man singing to his faithless love.