Everyone can wash
The Sultan of Johor’s decree has been heeded – the owne a ‘Muslims-only’ launderette has taken down the offend-in sign and opened his outlet to everyone. The man has also apologised for his actions as even the Cabinet discussed t matter and decided that s
MUAR: The controversial “Muslims-only” self-service launderette in Taman Seri Cempaka here is now open to all.
After a dressing down by the Sultan of Johor, the owner has apologised for his action in putting up a signage at his outlet saying that it was for Muslim customers only.
The owner, who refused to be named, said he had obeyed Sultan Ibrahim Ibni Almarhum Sultan Iskandar’s decree to remove the signage and cease such practice.
“I regret the issue and I will obey His Majesty's command,” said the owner, adding that he took down the sign yesterday morning after reading The Star’s front page in which the ruler expressed his anger and ordered the owner to stop its discriminatory practice or face being shut down by him.
“I was not aware of it (the news) at first. I only learnt about Tuanku's comments after my friends alerted me and forwarded me the news article,” he said.
A check by The Star showed that the signage carrying the words “dobi ini hanya menerima pelanggan beragama Islam sahaja atas factor kesucian” (we only accept Muslim customers for reasons of cleanliness) was no longer displayed at the entrance of the 24-hour launderette.
The outlet remained open for business and customers could be seen using the machines.
However, stickers bearing “untuk pelanggan beragama Islam sahaja” and “for Muslim customers only" were still seen pasted on some of the dryers.
“I am very sorry that this issue has sparked so much controversy,” said the owner, adding that he would also remove the stickers soon.
He had previously said that the practice was his way of being a good Muslim and to cater to the demand for such services.
It was learnt that the launderette began operations in 2016 and the signage was put up some time this month.
One of the customers, only known as Zul, 25, said it was his second time at the launderette.
“I know the owner personally. He was my neighbour when I was little and he is actually friendly to others regardless of their religion and race.
“Maybe this practice was his way of reaching out to Muslim customers who could be very concerned about such cleanliness issues,” he said.
Zul said some of the issues could be alcoholic beverages found on the clothes of some non-Muslims, which was why Muslims may be afraid to use the same washing machines and dryers.
Another customer said the signage put up previously was unnecessary especially in a multiracial country like Malaysia.
“While I understand that some Muslims can be very particular, I hope this controversy will blow over soon,” he said.
A 61-year-old retiree, however, supported the owner, saying it was a good idea because of the cleanliness issue.
“I do not think this issue would cause disunity. Everyone is entitled to their own opinion,” she said.
Both Johor mufti Datuk Mohd Tahir Samsudin, who reportedly commended the launderette’s move previously, and Johor Religious Committee chairman Abd Mutalip Abd Rahim could not be contacted for comments at press time.
Meanwhile, Malaysian Indian Commerce Association president P. Sivakumar said they were happy with the Sultan’s decision as such divisive moves could have a “ripple effect” with other business owners also doing the same thing.
“We are a secular country. How can we allow for such businesses to open up. This will surely put off investors from other countries,” he added.