KUALA LUMPUR – Former Sg Benut MP Mohamed Tawfiq Tun Dr Ismail has warned Umno that it risks alienating voters if its leaders, like Youth chief Datuk Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh, continue to rely on racially and religiously charged rhetoric.
Tawfiq, the son of Malaysia’s second deputy prime minister, Tun Dr Ismail Abdul Rahman, called Dr Akmal a liability to the party, citing his combative stance on the recent “ham sandwich” incident at KK Mart, as well as earlier attacks on the convenience store chain over socks bearing the word “Allah.”
“The trouble with trying to defend so-called Malay sensitivities is that you enter the religious realm, where everything becomes black and white,” Tawfiq told Scoop.
“There is no reason to be overly racist. Just because someone running a business is non-Malay, you cannot look at it as anti-Malay. That kind of thinking is wrong.”
Tawfiq stressed that business and interdependence among communities were vital for Malaysia’s economy. He noted that both Malays and Chinese rely on each other, adding that racism in business would harm this balance.
Tawfik made the remarks at the launch of the “Liku Liku” art exhibition at Zhan Art Space, Jaya One, Petaling Jaya, earlier today. The exhibition features works by eight pioneers of TV3.
The event, organised by TV3 marketing pioneer-turned-visual artist Professor Hamid Mohamed, marks their first group showcase in over 40 years and runs from January 7 to February 23, 2025.
Addressing the ham sandwich controversy, which involved a halal-labelled product sold at a KK Mart outlet in Universiti Malaya, Tawfiq said it might have been a genuine mistake. He urged for forgiveness in line with Islamic values when apologies are offered.
“If someone makes a mistake and says, ‘I’m sorry,’ then accept the apology and move on,” he said.
‘Akmal’s approach problematic’
Tawfiq also expressed surprise at Akmal’s rhetoric, questioning the Merlimau assemblyman’s judgement as a medical doctor.
“Doctors are supposed to be among the most educated people in the world, but the way he expresses himself makes him seem illiterate about sensitivities,” he said.
“Why bring religion into it if you’re not a religious expert or respected in that field? People know you’re a politician trying to get votes—where is your credibility?”
Tawfiq argued that Akmal’s actions, such as urging boycotts of Chinese-owned businesses like KK Mart, not only risked alienating non-Malay voters but could also cost Umno support from educated Malays.
“As Malays become more educated and sensitive, they might not like what they hear from Akmal either,” Tawfiq added.
Controversies and investigations
Akmal has faced mounting criticism over his handling of issues involving KK Mart, beginning with his call to boycott the chain over socks featuring the word “Allah.”
Despite an apology from the company and charges being brought against those responsible, he doubled down, labelling the boycott necessary to protect Islam’s sanctity.
More recently, Akmal criticised KK Mart for selling halal-labelled ham sandwiches which he said questioned the credibility of Malaysia’s halal certification.
When criticised, the Umno politician accused critics of undermining his efforts to defend Islam, claiming his actions were not for political gain but to safeguard the religion.
Police investigations have also been launched against Akmal over potential sedition linked to his rhetoric in the past.
Tawfiq warned that such approaches could be detrimental to Umno’s future, particularly in a multi-ethnic and multi-religious society like Malaysia.
“The party needs to consider its future voters,” he said. “If Dr Akmal continues down this path, he risks losing not just non-Malay votes but also the support of Malays who value harmony and education over divisive politics.” – January 26, 2025
