Tuaran MP criticises Dr Akmal's reaction to 'Allah' socks issue, mocks call for apology from China

PETALING JAYA: Tuaran MP Wilfred Madius Tangau has criticised Dr Akmal Saleh's exaggerated response to the "Allah" socks controversy, sarcastically suggesting that the Umno Youth chief should demand an apology from China over the matter.

In response to Dr Akmal's call for a nationwide boycott of KK Mart, Tangau suggested that the Umno leader should instead demand an explanation from China's ambassador to Malaysia.

The Upko MP emphasised the importance of acknowledging KK Mart's prompt action in removing the controversial products from its shelves and issuing apologies.

"Why is their oversight being treated as deliberate malice? Why demand or order the closure of both KK Mart and its supplier, Xin Jian Chang Sdn Bhd?" Tangau questioned.

"If disproportionality is justified in the name of religion, then Akmal must demand an apology from China for allowing the manufacturer in Yiwu, Zhejiang, to produce those socks."

According to FMT, Tangau suggested that Akmal should urge Foreign Minister Mohamad Hasan to summon China's ambassador for an explanation and consider boycotting China if Malaysia does not receive a satisfactory response.

"Of course, reasonable Malaysians do not actually expect the foreign minister to act disproportionately against China, given its significant involvement in Malaysia's economy," Tangau added, citing projects like the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) and Forest City in Johor.

Tangau warned that the "witch-hunt" against KK Mart could negatively impact the economy by discouraging investors from considering Malaysia as an investment destination.

"If negligence can lead to severe consequences for a retail chain planning to go public, what would protect investments from rogue competitors or extortion by law enforcers?" he questioned.

He also emphasised the need for Sabah and Sarawak to distance themselves from divisive issues prevalent in Peninsular Malaysia and cultivate a reputation as a reasonable, stable, and inclusive region to attract investors.

"We may lack in infrastructure and human resources, but we make up for it with our openness," Tangau said, emphasizing the moderation and tolerance characteristic of Bornean states.

"I hope Sabah Chief Minister Hajiji Noor and Sarawak Premier Abang Johari Openg can recognize both the crisis and opportunity at hand," he said.

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