Jakim: Stern action will be taken if Vern’s ‘Allah’ shoe logo is deliberate

The Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (Jakim) said yesterday that legal action would be taken if there was any deliberate elements concerning the logo of a shoe produced by Vern’s Holding Sdn Bhd that allegedly resembled the word ‘Allah’ that was imprinted on the shoe’s sole.

Its director-general Datuk Hakimah Mohd Yusoff said the department viewed the issue seriously and supported the efforts of the police to conduct further investigation into the matter.

“Jakim leaves it to the relevant authorities to investigate as an investigation paper has been opened by the police.

“Jakim also does not want such a case to recur in the future, whether by Vern’s Holding Sdn Bhd or anyone producing whatever sales product,” he said in a statement.

He added that Jakim had met Vern’s Holding Sdn Bhd’s founder and managing director Datuk Seri Ng Chuan Hoo yesterday to seek an explanation from the company, and discuss measures taken to avoid such an issue from recurring.

“Vern’s Holding Sdn Bhd has explained the real situation that led to the issue and apologised.

“The company has taken drastic measures, including an immediate recall of the offending product from over 70 of its branches throughout the country, including Sabah and Sarawak,” he said.

Hakimah said Jakim issued a stern reminder to Vern’s Holding and all operators, manufacturers, suppliers and importers to be always aware and pay serious attention to sensitive issues involving religion and race.

“(It) is to maintain harmony among the public in the country. Everyone is advised not to stir up issues touching on 3R – religion, race and royalty – that can cause tension and sow discord,” he added.