AGC charges KK Mart for bearing the word 'Allah' on socks, MY govt steers clear

The Attorney General's Chambers (AGC) is charging the top management of KK Supermart and Superstore for the sale of socks bearing the word 'Allah'. In a statement, the AGC said the company's director will face charges under Section 298 of the penal code for "deliberately intending to hurt the religious feelings of Muslims".

In tandem, the suppliers of the socks Xin Jian Chang will also be charged under Section 109 of the penal code for supplying the socks printed with the word 'Allah' to KK Supermart and Superstore.

Don't miss: UMNO Youth chief vows to continue calling for boycott of KK Mart despite apology 

According to prime minister Anwar Ibrahim, the government will not be interfering in any investigation processes related to the incident. Speaking at the 217th Police Day celebration on 25 March, Anwar reportedly said that while the government remains steadfast that there is no compromise on such actions, the police are given a free hand to conduct the investigation. 

Meanwhile, KK Supermart has also reportedly sued socks supplier Xin Jian Chang and its director Soh Chin Huat.

KK Supermart is reportedly seeking RM10.5 million for damage caused to its brand name and goodwill in the market, and RM20.3 million caused by the aborted proposed listing on the stock exchange of its business. 

It is also reportedly seeking for aggravated damages to be assessed by the court, and punitive and exemplary damages. 

In a statement of claim filed in court as part of its lawsuit, KK Supermart reportedly said that Xin Jian Chang had put such socks with KK Supermart's knowledge at its Bandar Sunway branch. 

Additionally, it reportedly claimed Xin Jian Chang had acted negligently or recklessly and in breach of contract. These actions, KK Supermart reportedly added, had allegedly caused losses to the company. 

The incident has caused an uproar in Malaysia, with numerous country leaders, including His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, who previously called for stern action to be taken by the authorities to those responsible for the sale of socks. 

"The word of Allah is highly regarded by all Muslims, and we are in the month of Ramadan," said His Majesty in a statement on Facebook. 

"Whether it is intentional or not, whether it is imported or exported in a local factory, I want the authorities to investigate and take strict actions in accordance with the law so that such matters are not repeated.

Various political leaders have also stepped forward to address the controversial issue. One of whom includes Umno Youth chief Akmal Saleh who has continued to call for a boycott of KK Supermart convenience stores. 

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