Prasarana Removes Deodorant Advert from Trains Due to Racist Undertones & Cultural Insensitivity

Prasarana Malaysia Bhd has taken down an advertisement by personal care brand HYGR from its Ampang-Sri Petaling LRT line following public complaints about racial insensitivity.

In a statement, Prasarana explained that the ad, which featured a personal care product, showcased everyday scenarios with Malaysians from diverse backgrounds using public transport.

"The aim was to highlight the importance of personal care products, without targeting any specific individual or race," the company stated.

Image Credit: Facebook

Prasarana assured that the visual had undergone thorough internal and external reviews to address racial, religious, and social sensitivities before being approved for display.

However, the company decided to remove the ad after receiving feedback from commuters.

"As a responsible public transport operator, Prasarana values community feedback, especially when an issue can be perceived as targeting a particular individual or group," the statement concluded.

The advert recently went viral after a Facebook user accused it of being racist. However, netizens were divided on the issue, with some urging those who were offended by the ad to consider it as a whole instead of being blinded by rage.

Image Credit: Facebook

Meanwhile, as shared by HYGR, the advert's intention was for it to be wholesome and inclusive, depicting Malaysians of all races using public transport in everyday situations.

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Featured Image Credit: Facebook, The Edge Malaysia