March 2024 Recap: KK Super Mart’s ‘Allah’ Socks Fiasco, Disgusting Bazaar Ramadan Food, & Bak Kut Teh Issue #RDRECAP

Ramadan bazaars, usually a highlight of the fasting month, faced criticism for their poor food quality. The Bak Kut Teh issue stirred further controversy, adding to the month's tumultuous events.

Here's a quick recap of what happened in March 2024:

KK Super Mart faced boycott after socks bearing the name ‘Allah’ were found to be sold at several outlets

Perhaps one of the most shocking controversies of March, local convenience store chain KK Super Mart went viral after socks with the name ‘Allah’ were found sold in several outlets.

The discovery of the socks led to multiple outlets being vandalised and the public calling for a massive boycott.

Following the incident, KK Super Mart founder Datuk Seri Dr Chai Kee Kan issued an apology. He also explained that the product management of the items was done entirely by a vendor via a space rental system and without supervision from KK Super Mart employees.

Meanwhile, following the incident, it was reported that KK Super Mart sued the socks vendor for a figure close to RM30 million for breach of contract, claiming that its business was sabotaged.

Netizens took to social media to criticise disgusting food from Ramadan bazaars

Social media was flooded with photos and stories of people who had bought disgusting food from bazaars all over the country during Ramadan.

From murtabak with a cockroach found inside, fly egg-infested beef soup and rock-hard pulut panggang, it's safe to say March was never dried out of stories about bad bazaar Ramadan food.

Recognition of Bak Kut Teh as a national heritage dish sparks debate

A government decision to designate bak kut teh as one of 10 heritage foods caused massive debate. While some advocated for the dish, others opposed the move, citing concerns about racial and religious sensitivities.