CYBERJAYA: Local business operator Malakat Mall and the Islamic Consumer Development Cooperative Malaysia (KoPPIM) jointly spearheaded a global 'Buy Muslim First' (BMF) campaign today, aiming to bolster support for local entrepreneurs and those from Islamic nations.
Through this initiative, Malakat Mall will serve as a platform to showcase Muslim brands on a weekly basis.
Its founder Mohd Fadzil Hashim said it was significant for a nation to give priority to local Muslim products especially with the ongoing boycott towards pro-Israel brands.
"The initiative to promote Muslim and local products is essential, aligning with current needs, particularly as a significant number of people are boycotting various key products.
"This can be seen in Islamic countries like Turkey which have 90 per cent of brands owned by Muslims, in contrast to countries like the United States or Europe," he said today at the officiating ceremony of the BMF campaign here at Malakat Mall.
However, Fadzil stressed that the BMF initiative is not based on race and was not intended to boycott non-Muslims. Instead, its focus is on strengthening the economy of Muslims themselves.
Meanwhile, KoPPIM chairman Mustapa Kamal hoped that more local entrepreneurs, especially Muslims, will produce a variety of local products as choices for the people of Malaysia.
He mentioned given the current situation with the boycott of pro-Israel products, the public has already begun choosing local products.
"So, I hope local entrepreneurs, regardless of being Muslim or not, continue to make efforts to produce local products so that we have more options. Additionally, this endeavor can strengthen the economy of local products," he said.
Prior to this, over 1,000 individuals gathered at Malakat Mall for March4Gaza, demonstrating their solidarity with Palestinians amid the ongoing conflict and emphasising their boycott of pro-Israel products.
Fadzil said he viewed such boycott measures taken by the public as a success ans the affects could be seen on some particular products.
"To the extent that they not only avoid entering boycotted business premises but also feel ashamed to be seen in the surrounding areas.
"Our people are so sensitive that many are emotionally hurt. They feel helpless, and boycotting is the only collective action they can take," he added.
"This (boycott) would be more effective if it is followed by efforts to introduce alternative products to prevent the public from returning to the boycotted products once the situation calms down.
"So, what we are launching today is a strategic step through the 12 protocols of BMF Global involving Islamic consumers, entrepreneurs, and non-Islamic consumers and entrepreneurs who align with the struggle for Palestinian liberation," he said.
Fadzil also called upon consumers to utilise their power strategically, not only to support their interests but also to safeguard Islam and its people.
"The time has come for us to start using our power as consumers to build our own strength so that with that strength, we can help protect the Islamic community.