Faisal Tehrani's novel 'The Koro Riots' satirizes Malaysian politics through a fictional penis-shrinking plague
Faisal Tehrani's book 'The Koro Riots' is set in the imaginary nation of Hujung Manani, where a plague causes men’s genitals to retract or disappear, resulting in widespread disorder. Published by Penguin Random House SEA and translated by Brigitte Bresson, the narrative critiques the political landscape of Malaysia, addressing issues like corruption and racism. The plot kicks off with the assassination of Sistine, inspired by Mongolian figure Shaariibuugiin Altantuyaa, who is connected to former Prime Minister Najib Razak. Her murder sparks an epidemic that reveals deep-rooted moral issues within society. Reflecting Malaysia’s dependence on petrocapital and plastic waste, the novel features a fragmented narrative style that mixes humor with historical references, ending with a quote from Sayyida Zaynab bint Ali that hints at the need for political change. The book is available for £13.95.
Key facts
- Faisal Tehrani authored 'The Koro Riots', a novel critiquing Malaysian politics through a fictional penis-shrinking plague.
- The book is translated by Brigitte Bresson and published by Penguin Random House SEA in softcover for £13.95.
- The story is set in Hujung Manani, a fictional former French colony with borders resembling Malaysia, Indonesia, and Singapore.
- A character named Sistine, based on Shaariibuugiin Altantuyaa, is murdered, triggering a curse that causes the epidemic.
- The plague, named koro after a real culture-bound delusion, exposes corruption and hypocrisy in society.
- Hujung Manani's economy centers on plastics, reflecting Malaysia's petrocapital history and 2018 plastic waste import status.
- The novel uses a fast-paced, fragmented narrative style to explore postcolonial political issues and Islamic fundamentalism.
- Heroic characters like a forensic scientist and 'True Patriot' offer hope, ending with a quote from Sayyida Zaynab bint Ali.
Entities
Artists
- Faisal Tehrani
- Brigitte Bresson
- Shaariibuugiin Altantuyaa
- Najib Razak
- Sayyida Zaynab bint Ali
- Prophet Muhammad
Institutions
- Penguin Random House SEA
- ArtReview
Locations
- Malaysia
- Indonesia
- Singapore
- Hujung Manani
- Mongolia