Jakim to question those involved in shoe controversy on Monday

PETALING JAYA: All parties involved in the latest controversy concerning the issue of the shoe with a logo said to depict the word "Allah" in Arabic script have been told to provide an explanation to the Islamic Development Department (Jakim).

Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Dr Mohd Na'im Mokhtar said he instructed Jakim to look into allegations that the word was found on the sole of a shoe.

"I've instructed Jakim to call up the relevant quarters on Monday (April 8) to provide further explanation.

"Anyone who has relevant information can forward it to the authorities, including the police," said Mohd Na'im in a statement on Sunday (April 7).

He also urged everyone to remain calm and allow Jakim and the authorities to investigate the issue.

"The Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs) will not compromise with anyone if they have clearly insulted Islam," added Mohd Na'im.

ALSO READ: IGP looking into claims 'Allah' word seen on shoe sole, store denies claim

Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Razarudin Husain told The Star earlier Sunday that the police would look into the allegation.

Umno Youth chief Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh had said he received a message from an unspecified individual on Facebook that the shoe was found in a local store.

Dr Akmal said on viewing the illustration in question, it appeared to him to be of a high-heeled shoe and strap.

However, he has asked the company to provide an explanation within 24 hours of face a boycott call.

The owner of the local shoe company, when contacted by The Star, said the issue had been misunderstood.

He said the illustration in question was the logo of a shoe manufacturer based in China.

He said his company would issue a statement on the matter shortly