Probe of socks issue will go on despite store’s apology, Dewan Rakyat told

KUALA LUMPUR: The probe on convenience store chain KK Super Mart will continue despite its apology for the oversight of selling socks with “Allah” printed on them, the Dewan Rakyat was told.

Deputy Home Minister Datuk Seri Shamsul Anuar Nasarah said the investigation involved inciting public outrage and uproar.

“If found guilty, the parties involved may be subject to a fine of up to RM20,000 or imprisonment not exceeding three years, or both,” he said in reply to a supplementary question from Datuk Mohd Shahar Abdullah (BN-Paya Besar) during Question Time on Monday (March 18).

Mohd Shahar had asked the Home Ministry to state the actions taken to put a stop to the sale of such apparel.

On Sunday (March 17), political leaders, individuals and groups came out to call for understanding and closure.

They have urged for cooler heads to prevail, saying the episode should serve as a lesson to all to be more careful in dealing with religious sensitivities.

According to Shamsul Anuar, police had received a total of 36 reports on the matter as of Monday.

“One investigation paper was opened on March 14.

“The (matter) is currently being investigated and we are monitoring the situation,” he added.

He said the investigation was being conducted under the Penal Code as well as the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998.

Based on the investigation, all the socks had been removed from outlets nationwide, he said.

“The issue has gone viral and we are viewing it seriously.

“Enforcement action has been taken by inspecting all the premises of the chain nationwide,” said Shamsul Anuar.

On Saturday (March 16) night, Umno Youth demanded that banners of apology be placed at all 881 KK Super Mart outlets nationwide.

The movement’s chief Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh said they would resort to more “drastic” action if such an apology was not forthcoming within 48 hours.