"Zaid Urges Anwar: Halt KK Mart Boycott Amid 'Allah' Socks Furor"

"Zaid Urges Anwar: Halt KK Mart Boycott Amid 'Allah' Socks Furor"

1 Apr 2024 • 8:00 PM MYT

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Former Law Minister Zaid Ibrahim has called upon Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim to intervene and halt Umno's campaign for a boycott of KK Mart convenience stores following the controversy surrounding the sale of socks featuring the word "Allah." Zaid emphasized the significance of Prime Minister Anwar addressing the issue, asserting that the boycott calls were not to be taken lightly.


Zaid stressed the importance of directing anger towards the appropriate source when Islam is insulted. He questioned the rationale behind the boycott, asking whether it was a rational response and whether investigations into the incident had been completed to identify the responsible party.


The controversy erupted after images of the socks sold at KK Mart's Bandar Sunway store circulated on social media. Despite the company issuing an apology and expressing remorse over the incident, Umno Youth chief Dr. Akmal Saleh insisted on further action, demanding that KK Mart display apology banners at all 881 of its stores nationwide. Dr. Saleh warned of a more severe boycott if the company failed to comply, asserting that the initial apology was insufficient to resolve the issue.


Zaid criticized the proposed boycott, questioning the necessity of damaging the economy when the perpetrator had yet to be identified. He urged Prime Minister Anwar to remind Umno of the responsibilities that come with being part of the ruling government and the need to minimize damage in times of crisis.


Furthermore, Zaid expressed skepticism regarding the effectiveness of the boycott without the participation of PAS or Bersatu. He suggested that KK Mart engage with PAS and clarify the circumstances surrounding the use of "Allah" on the socks. Zaid emphasized the importance of identifying the party responsible for the incident and highlighted that if PAS were to believe KK Mart's explanation, the boycott would likely fail.


In essence, Zaid Ibrahim's call for Prime Minister Anwar's intervention underscores the need for reasoned and unified responses to sensitive issues. He emphasizes the importance of accountability and cooperation within the ruling government while also highlighting the potential economic ramifications of an unwarranted boycott.