Socks issue: State govt to take stern action on those responsible, says Johor exco

JOHOR BARU: The Johor government will ensure that stern actions will be taken against those responsible for the Allah socks issue, says state Islamic Religious Affairs Committee chairman Mohd Fared Mohd Khalid (pic).

He said that he would do everything in his power to make sure that appropriate action was taken against those involved, in accordance with the Johor State Constitution 1895, Federal Constitution as well as the related enactments and laws.

"We take heed of Regent of Johor Tunku Ismail Ibni Sultan Ibrahim’s decree regarding the matter and will continue to uphold the sanctity of Islam in the state.

"It is regrettable when there are still those who disrespect religious sensitivities, especially Islam, which is the country’s official religion," he said in a statement on Tuesday (March 19).

Mohd Fared also reminded all quarters, including individuals, not to take the word 'Allah' lightly or engage in actions that smear the religion.

Earlier on Tuesday, Tunku Ismail expressed hope that the issue would not jeopardise national harmony.

"The name of Allah is an important holy word for Muslims. I urge authorities to take firm action and ensure that an issue like this does not happen again.

"This issue cannot be taken lightly," he said in a Facebook post.

In a statement convenience store chain KK Super Mart, apologised and said it had pulled all such socks off its shelves.

"We regret the incident and take this seriously," read the statement, which went on to explain that the socks were sold on consignment from a vendor.