Malaysia Grapples with Religious Sensitivities Over 'Allah' Inscribed Footwear

Amidst a backdrop of heightened religious tensions, a Malaysian shoemaker halts sales and apologizes for a design some perceive as offensive.

A line of women's shoes has sparked outrage in Malaysia due to a design some believe resembles the Arabic inscription for 'Allah'.
The controversy follows a similar incident involving socks, exacerbating concerns over religious sensitivities in the Muslim-majority nation.
Vern’s, the brand at the center of the dispute, has ceased sales and offered refunds, asserting the design was a misunderstanding.
Malaysian authorities are investigating the matter, with over 1,140 pairs of shoes confiscated nationwide.
The incidents have fueled debates on cancel culture and the political exploitation of religious sentiments in Malaysia.