Recently, a third branch of a well-known Malaysian convenience store was targeted with a Molotov cocktail due to the sale of socks featuring the word “Allah.” This incident resulted in two executives of the chain facing charges for “hurting religious feelings.”
The attack occurred at a KK Supermart outlet in Kuching, Sarawak state, where a carton of drinking water was set on fire following the Molotov attack, as confirmed by the district police assistant commissioner. The police are actively pursuing the suspect under penal code Section 435, which prohibits arson and explosives use.
The controversy began when pictures of socks with the word “Allah” being sold at KK Supermart circulated on Malaysian social media. This sparked outrage among a segment of Malaysian Muslims who found the association of the holy word with feet disrespectful. The fact that the store is Malaysian-Chinese-owned and the socks were sold during Ramadan further fueled the controversy.
This incident in Kuching marks the third attack on a KK Supermart outlet, with previous assaults in Perak and Pahang states. KK Supermart apologized for the socks and took immediate action to stop their sale. The company also took legal action against the supplier of the socks, alleging sabotage and damage to the brand’s reputation.
Despite the efforts to address the issue, the authorities charged the founder and chairman of KK Supermart, along with others, for “wounding the religious feelings of others.” This reflects the tense ethnic relations in Malaysia, where Malays coexist with Chinese and Indian minorities, and highlights the sensitive nature of Malaysian Islam.
Due to concerns about sectarian tensions, Malaysian authorities are vigilant about issues related to race, religion, and royalty. The Department of Islamic Development warned businesses to be mindful of sensitive religious and ethnic matters to maintain social harmony and well-being in the country.