KUALA LUMPUR – Any attempt to disrespect the sanctity of Islam as the country’s official religion is a grave offence and runs contrary to the nation’s laws, said PKR’s information chief Fahmi Fadzil in a statement.
In wake of the controversy that erupted over the sale of “Allah”-printed socks in several KK Mart convenience stores recently, Fahmi said PKR’s central leadership committee strongly condemns such actions.
The leadership also urges authorities to conduct an investigation as well as punish the perpetrators if found guilty, he added.
Fahmi, who is also communications minister, said that this was the position taken by the party at today’s committee meeting.
He explained that the meeting was held to discuss several matters related to the party’s current developments and national issues, including the stoking incident involving KK Mart.
He said that the council also believes that insulting any religion is likewise an offence and a violation of the law.
“Such actions will only disrupt the harmony and love that are the foundation of peaceful coexistence among the Malaysian people,” he said.
However, Fahmi said that while the police conduct their investigation, PKR believes it is inappropriate for any party to further deteriorate the situation.
“All our actions must be based on the law and the Federal Constitution, not on emotions and uncontrolled legal anger.
“The council urges all parties to respect the sanctity of Ramadan and to consider what has happened as a boundary that must be avoided in the future,” he said.
Since KK Mart’s sale of the “Allah”-printed socks first incited ire online last week, several quarters, including Umno youth, have repeatedly called for Muslim consumers to boycott its outlets.
Videos have emerged on social media showing individuals staging protests and confronting store staff in some locations.
Following public outrage, KK Supermart & Superstore Sdn Bhd founder Datuk Seri K.K. Chai apologised profusely at a press conference last weekend.
Additionally, the store’s outlets are opting to express their regret in the form of banners outside stores and messages at their counters.
Meanwhile, KK Mart’s local importer Xin Jian Chang Sdn Bhd also apologised for an oversight in its quality control process, saying it had done its best to ensure that all 18,800 socks received from its supplier in China were cleared for sale here.
Xin Jian Chang also said it was considering legal action against the China-based supplier for negligence.
Meanwhile, Fahmi said that the meeting approved the organisation of a special convention for PKR’s 25th anniversary, which will be held on April 28 at the Dewan Raja Muda Musa in Shah Alam, Selangor.
“The convention will focus on the party’s planning and direction,” he said.
He said the meeting also decided to hold the PKR 25th Anniversary Celebration Night on May 11, 2024, at Sentul Depot throughout the day, with the highlight being the President’s Address in the evening. – March 24, 2024