A LOCAL shoe company has clarified that a logo on the soles of some of its footwear which some complained looked like the Arabic script for “Allah” was a stylised heel.

In a statement, Vern’s Holding Sdn Bhd said the logo was not intended to insult any religion.

“The logo is 100 percent inspired by the silhouette of straps attached with a high heel.

“We acknowledge that there are shortcomings in the logo’s design that could lead to misinterpretation, thereby offending the feelings of many parties.”

“The management humbly apologises to all and hopes for kindness to be given space to rectify the mistake, “it said in the statement

The company said it has taken immediate steps to cease the sale of the shoes and is prepared to refund customers who have purchased them.

Vern’s said the incident is a valuable lesson for the company to be more careful when making any decisions.

Earlier today, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious affairs) Datuk Dr Mohd Na’im Mokhtar said he instructed Jakim to look into the claim.

He also called for all parties to remain calm and provide space for Jakim and the authorities to investigate the matter.

In a Facebook post that went viral earlier today, a man said he bought the shoes from the company’s outlet in Kuantan.

He shared a video showing the shoe and its sole after taking it out of the packaging.

Umno Youth Chief Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh had demanded the local shoe provide an explanation.

In a  Facebook post he said that although he thought what was visible was actually a design and not the holy word, he still wants the local company to clarify the situation.

He added that he was outraged at first after reading about the issue on social media but his research led him to a “logical” argument that the design was of a shoe and not the holy word.

“I read a posting that said it was a logo that depicted a high heel with its straps, and that is what I see too.

“There is logic in this, but whatever it may be, we urge the local company to issue an immediate clarification. – April 7, 2024.