Corn trader in Malaysia apologises for racially offensive signboard

A corn trader in Malaysia has apologised for displaying a racially insensitive signboard in front of his cart in Sepang, Selangor. The trader had reportedly displayed a sign which stated, "Sorry, these corns will not be served to Indian people". 

In an X post on Monday (17 February), National Unity minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang said the trader apologised to the entire Malaysian community, specifically those who belong to the Indian community, at an apology session on Sunday (16 February). He also added that the trader promised not to repeat such actions in the future. 

The session was attended by representatives from the Indian community, influencers, local residents, officials from the Nation Unity and Integration Department, and the police. 

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"The leaders of the Rukun Tetangga (KRT) area, Roseman and Syawal, have been instrumental in resolving this controversy. Their role in resolving this controversy has also strengthened the community's confidence in the role of KRT as an agent of unity and problem solving," Aaron said. 

He added, "This also emphasises the importance of cooperation between community leaders and the authorities to ensure that a harmonious and peaceful atmosphere is maintained."

Moreover, Aaron emphasised that the community must always strive to ensure that words and actions do not create feelings of discomfort, tension, or misunderstanding among followers of different religions, cultures, and races.

"Malaysia is a country rich in ethnic and religious diversity, and it is our shared responsibility to maintain this harmony. National unity can only be achieved if each individual practices the values ​​of mutual understanding, respect, and acceptance of differences," he said. 

A TikTok influencer who was present at the meeting shared comments from the respective parties, showing the trader shaking hands with representatives from the Indian community and apologising for his actions. 

A+M has reached out to National Unity for a statement.

The Malaysian government has prompted the public to maintain racial harmony in recent times. In September last year, tourism, arts and culture minister Tiong King Sing reportedly urged Malaysians to avoid "creating unnecessary issues" on social media that could lead to misunderstandings and harm racial harmony in the country. The comment comes as users criticised a viral video promoting Melaka tourism which allegedly focused on elements of a single ethnicity, reported The Star. 

Minister Tiong reportedly said that a check by the ministry found that the video was produced by a TV station in China to promote tourism in the state. He reportedly added that prime minister Anwar Ibrahim has worked hard to maintain harmony and hopes that Malaysians can unite regardless of race or religion. 

In fact, a 2024 survey conducted by Merdeka Centre revealed that the youth of Malaysia are significantly divided, due to widely held beliefs and deep-rooted realities. When asked to choose between two opposing positions, 73% of Malays chose to continue Malay privileges, while 24% favoured equal treatment for all Malaysians regardless of race and religion, according to the survey. 

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