MRCA worries over risk of 'malicious persecution tactics' following 'Allah' socks furore

Tuesday 22 Oct 2024

KUALA LUMPUR (March 29): Malaysia Retail Chain Association (MRCA) expressed concern about potential "malicious persecution tactics" in the wake of the controversy surrounding the "Allah" socks sold by convenience store chain KK Mart.

"MRCA does not condone any provocative action whether verbal or otherwise, by any individual or corporation that has the capacity to intentionally or unintentionally trigger any public sentiment on sensitive matters relating to race, religion and royalty,” the association said.

MRCA, representing the interests of over 550 members (with half of them being retail and restaurant chain operators), added that the issue could impact foreign direct investments (FDI) into Malaysia.

"The recent issues concerning one of our members have raised immense fear and grave concern among retailers and restaurateurs on the possibility of falling victim to similar malicious public persecution tactics under the pretext of freedom of speech," MRCA said.

Furthermore, MRCA pointed out that the public persecution of KK Mart runs counter to the principles of natural justice, saying businessmen and investors are apprehensive about the negative image it may cast on business growth and sustainability.

On Tuesday, KK Supermart & Superstore Sdn Bhd, its founder and others were charged at the Shah Alam Sessions Court over the sale of the contentious socks that offended the religious feelings of Muslims. They pleaded not guilty, with KK Mart having filed a lawsuit against the supplier over the issue.

Datuk Seri Chai Kee Kan, also known as KK Chai, and his wife Datin Seri Loh Siew Mui, who is a director in the company, were charged under Section 298 of the Penal Code with deliberate intent to wound the religious feelings of others.

Soh Chin Huat, director of Xin Jian Chang Sdn Bhd that distributed the socks, his daughter and managing director Soh Hui San, as well as Chin Huat’s wife, Goh Li Huay, were all charged under Section 109 of the Penal Code, read together with Section 298, for abetting the said offense by supplying the convenience store chain with the socks.

Amid the public uproar, Lawyers for Liberty has urged action against those who make inciting statements about the controversy. Its director, Zaid Malek, emphasised that all those responsible must face the law, regardless of whether the person making such inciting remarks comes from a government political party or not.

Inspector General of Police Tan Sri Razarudin Husain reminded the public not to take matters into their own hands and to let the police handle the situation lawfully. He emphasised that everyone must obey the country’s law and urged the public to allow the police to determine the lawful course of action.

Edited ByEsther Lee

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