A barbecue restaurant in Bandar Botanic, Klang, was raided on December 4, 2024, after a viral YouTube video alleged it was promoting communist propaganda.
The video showed dining utensils, including bowls, cups, and soup spoons, adorned with images of Mao Zedong.
Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Razarudin Husain confirmed that the items seized included ceramic bowls and tea sets printed with the controversial imagery.
The Raid and Findings
According to NST, the raid was conducted by the Klang Selatan district police at 10:00 PM on December 4, following a tip-off from a viral YouTube video posted by the account Luiswong90.
Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Razarudin Husain stated that authorities discovered the following:
- Five white ceramic bowls displaying images and slogans of Mao Zedong.
- Ceramic teacups and soup spoons with similar imagery.
- A business receipt linked to the purchase of these items.
Restaurant Manager Arrested
The police, under the Klang Selatan District Criminal Investigation Department, arrested a 20-year-old restaurant manager during a raid. He had been working at the restaurant since October 2023.
The utensils were reportedly bought by a friend of the restaurant owner, who lives in China, and were meant to be used at the restaurant.
To Attract Chinese Customers
The communist-themed items, including bowls, cups, and soup spoons featuring Mao Zedong’s imagery, were purchased via an e-commerce platform and were intended to make Chinese nationals feel more at home and encourage them to visit the restaurant.
Legal Implications
Authorities are investigating the restaurant under Section 47 of the Societies Act 1966, which prohibits efforts to revive banned organizations, and Section 505(b) of the Penal Code addresses actions likely to cause public unrest.
The suspect was remanded for two days (from December 4 to December 6) to facilitate investigations, which included verifying the restaurant’s license with the Klang Municipal Council.
Police also announced plans to work with the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) to investigate the Luiswong90 YouTube account.
Restaurant License
Contrary to earlier concerns, Tan Sri Razarudin Husain confirmed that the restaurant holds a valid license. This was confirmed during the investigation, alleviating any questions about the establishment’s legality.
Public Reactions
The issue sparked debate online. Many Malaysians supported the police’s quick action, citing the importance of upholding the country’s laws against communist ideology.
One commenter praised the courage of YouTuber Luiswong90 for bringing the issue to light.
However, some users found the situation exaggerated. One commenter expressed disbelief, saying, “How ridiculous, you can even call these utensils a catalyst for communism.”
Another user shared concerns about communist sympathies in Malaysia.
Meanwhile, others suggested stronger measures, with one comment urging them to cancel the restaurant’s license and ban them from operating for good.
YouTuber Luiswong90 also added to the concern claiming that the imagery posed a potential risk, warning that subtle propaganda could lead to more significant influences if left unchecked.
Cultural Sensitivity and Business Risks
This case highlights the importance of understanding local laws and cultural sensitivities when operating a business.
While the tableware may have been intended to appeal to Chinese customers, it raised significant legal and social concerns in Malaysia, where promoting communism is strictly prohibited.
Similar Incident
In a similar incident back in 2021, police launched an investigation into a restaurant in Penang for displaying communist elements, including images of communist leaders, on wallpaper at two of its premises in Auto City and Pulau Tikus.
The investigation followed public complaints, and the restaurant owner, who was under COVID-19 quarantine, had not been questioned at that time.
The case was investigated under the Societies Act and Penal Code for promoting banned organizations and causing public unrest. The wallpaper was later removed by the police.
Watch the video here:
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