Cabinet didn’t discuss acting against Akmal specifically, says Fahmi

 

Communications minister Fahmi Fadzil said there will be consequences for those who go against the king’s command.

KUALA LUMPUR: Government spokesman Fahmi Fadzil says the Cabinet has not discussed acting against Umno Youth chief Dr Akmal Saleh for his vocal stance against KK Mart, which has been mired in controversy after it was found selling socks bearing the word “Allah”.

While the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, Sultan Ibrahim, issued a “final warning” yesterday against taking advantage of the controversy, Akmal, who has continually spearheaded a campaign for a nationwide boycott of the convenience store chain, reportedly stated that the king did not explicitly say the boycott should be stopped.

Fahmi told reporters today that while the Cabinet discussed taking action against those who defy the king’s command and continue to prolong the issue, there was no specific discussion about any one individual during yesterday’s meeting.

“We did not discuss him specifically. We discussed this (action) in general,” said the communications minister when asked if the Cabinet is considering any action against Akmal.

“I believe we need to uphold the king’s command to maintain peace and refrain from inciting the public. There will be consequences for those who go against his command.”

Asked what action the Cabinet is considering against those who keep playing up the issue, Fahmi said it would be “based on the law”.

“There are several Acts that can be enforced. We will follow legal procedures,” he said.

Sultan Ibrahim had warned all parties yesterday against taking advantage of the matter, including inciting the public, after granting an audience to KK Mart founder KK Chai.

It was the king’s second statement within a week after he similarly urged the public to let the issue be managed by the authorities, adding that “persistent anger brings no benefit”.

The controversy began when photographs were circulated on social media showing socks bearing the word “Allah” sold at KK Mart’s Bandar Sunway outlet on March 13.

The company subsequently apologised, while Chai and a KK Mart director claimed trial to wounding religious feelings. Three officers from Xin Jian Chang Sdn Bhd, the Batu Pahat-based vendor which supplied KK Mart with the socks, were also charged.

The episode has seen three KK Mart outlets attacked with petrol bombs, which Akmal has condemned. - FMT