Don't make it worse, unity minister warns after KK Mart vandalism

 

National Unity Minister Aaron Ago Dagang has urged all parties to refrain from escalating tensions regarding the KK Mart outlet at Universiti Malaya which was vandalised with red paint.

“I want to emphasise that there will be no compromise with any party that tries to disrupt the harmony of our nation, which we have built together over the years.

“Unity and harmony are the most important assets of our multiracial, multicultural, and multi-religious country,” he said in a statement.

Aaron noted that the authorities are investigating the “chicken ham” sandwich issue which led to the outlet coming under fire from various quarters.

“Therefore, I urge all parties not to worsen the situation further by making provocative statements or actions,” he added.

Aaron said Malaysians have a responsibility to safeguard and preserve sensitivities to ensure the nation's peace and prosperity remain secure.

“I urge all parties, whether individuals or groups, not to engage in any actions or statements that could damage the harmonious relationship between races and religions in Malaysia,” he added.

Police report lodged

In a related development, UM stated that it had lodged a police report over the incident.

“UM is committed to providing full cooperation to the authorities in conducting the investigation. UM also urges strict action to be taken against those responsible to ensure such incidents do not recur.

“UM further calls on anyone with information related to this incident to come forward to assist in the investigation,” it said in a statement.

The UM management had shuttered two KK Mart outlets on its campus over its sandwich packs after their halal credential came into question.

The Islamic Development Department (Jakim) stated that the sandwich as a whole does not have halal certification, in response to the halal logo being placed on the packaging.

KK Mart said the sandwiches were made by Shake and Bake Cafe Sdn Bhd and sold on multiple platforms, including the convenience store chain’s Concept Store outlets.

It said Shake and Bake Cafe had produced halal certificates for the chicken ham and cheese slices used in the sandwich. The food manufacturer had also provided the wording for the product.

However, KK Mart said Shake and Bake Cafe was not authorised to use KK Mart’s logo on the sandwich’s packaging - which it said was done by the manufacturer. - Mkini