Is it 'Allah' word or heel drawing, Akmal asks shoe brand to clarify

Is it 'Allah' word or heel drawing, Akmal asks shoe brand to clarify

Published: Apr 7, 2024 3:12 PM


UPDATED 5.45PM | Added Penang police’s comments.

Social media is aflame again over the word “Allah”, this time after calligraphy of the Arabic word for God was allegedly found on the sole of a shoe from a local brand.

However, some also pointed out that the graphic does not spell the word “Allah”, but is instead an illustration of a stiletto heel.

The allegations against shoe brand Vern’s appeared to have first surfaced on TikTok on March 23.

However, it caught wider attention on social media today after a couple posted about it on Facebook.

This sparked outrage and immediate calls to boycott the brand.

It soon caught the attention of Umno Youth chief Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh, who has been leading a boycott against KK Mart over socks that had the word “Allah” on them.

While Akmal said he was outraged at first, his research led him to a “logical” argument that the design was of a shoe and not the holy word.

“I read a posting that said it was a logo that depicted a high heel with its straps, and that is what I see too.

“There is logic in this, but whatever it may be, we urge Vern’s to issue an immediate clarification,” he said in a Facebook post today.

He added that Muslims would not act wildly without checking things first, and would instead husnuzon

(assume the best) first.


24 hours time frame

However, Akmal warned that if there was no clarification within 24 hours, Vern’s should not blame people if there is a boycott against them.

He then called his supporters to husnuzon and give the company 24 hours to respond.

Malaysiakini has also contacted Vern’s for a response.

The controversy comes hot on the heels of ongoing outrage against KK Mart over the socks scandal.

The outrage has led to three firebombing attempts at KK Mart outlets in Perak, Pahang, and Sarawak.

This is despite the offending socks only being found in three outlets in Selangor.

Akmal has been adamant in calling for a boycott despite numerous calls for calm from various quarters, in light of KK Mart already being charged for deliberately hurting religious feelings.


Jakim to probe

Meanwhile, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Islamic Affairs) Mohd Na’im Mokhtar said he has instructed the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (Jakim) to contact the shoe company tomorrow.

Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Islamic Affairs) Mohd Na’im Mokhtar said


He asked those with any information to contact the authorities including the police.

At the same time, he called for calm and for the authorities including Jakim to be given space to investigate the matter.


Police investigation underway

Separately, Penang police confirmed with Malaysiakini that they have received a report on the matter.

Deputy Penang police chief Usuf Jan Mohamed said the report was lodged by a teacher who saw a post on the matter on social media.

An investigation paper has been opened under Section 298A of the Penal Code for insulting religion and under Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act.

Vern's is quoted by The Star as explaining that the design was the logo of a shoe manufacturer based in China, and that a detailed statement would be issued.

The company will also reportedly be lodging a police report on the matter.