Bayan Lepas, Penang, Malaysia: In the heart of Penang’s Bayan Lepas, a pizza order sparked a firestorm of controversy as police investigated offensive comments on a receipt, raising concerns it was a religious provocation. The incident occurred at a popular pizza franchise. It has sparked a wave of discussion on social media platforms and drew public attention to the issue.
Pizza order receipt mocks Islam
Following a complaint received at 8:46 p.m., police immediately opened an investigation into the receipt, shared by a user named @Update1111 on social media. Kamarul Rizal Jenal, the Southwest District Police Chief, said the receipt came from an order placed through the Domino’s online platform at 3:03 pm on May 15 and it carried comments that are deemed an insult to Islam.
The remark in the receipt read: “At This Noisy Place With Stupid Moaning Sound Like Have S*x Everyday, Stupid Islam.”
Section 298 invoked
The seriousness of the situation led the authorities to invoke Section 298 of the Penal Code, which regulates acts intended to hurt religious sentiments. Additionally, it provides for severe penalties, including imprisonment and fines, upon conviction.
Assemblyman intervenes
Datuk Azrul Mahathir Aziz, the Bayan Lepas assemblyman, intervened and visited the outlet in his constituency. After speaking to outlet supervisors and the regional manager, Mohd Shukri Salem, Azrul shed light on the incident. Contrary to initial speculation, it turned out that the customer had entered the offensive comments in the remark section of the online order and they automatically appeared on the receipt.
Domino’s files police complaint
Azrul expressed concern about the incident’s potential to cause unrest, called for restraint and urged authorities to treat the matter judiciously. Given the growing public interest, Domino’s management also filed a police complaint, indicating its willingness to cooperate with the investigation.
The dangers of digital communication
While debates take place online and offline, this incident is a stark reminder of the power and dangers of digital communication. What began as a simple pizza order has become a complex legal and social issue, raising questions about responsibility, accountability and the delicate balance between freedom of expression and respect for religious sensitivities.
Amid heated debates, all parties must exercise restraint and allow authorities to conduct their investigations impartially. Even when emotions run high, calm and encouraging dialogue is essential to get through such difficult times.
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