Naelofar Hijab, a hijab brand in Malaysia, has issued an apology after a recent launch event raised ire in the predominantly Muslim country because it took place in a night club. In addition to numerous angry social-media posts, the fallout included a warning from a Sharie lawyer that guests could be charged with insulting Islam.
In an apology posted on Instagram, the brand's celebrity owner Noor Neelofa Mohd Noor (known as Neelofa) apologised for "causing stress and negative sentiments" with the venue selection for the 26 February event. "We will put greater attention in the future to make sure we protect the image of the product," she wrote. "Moving forward, we will make sure that we continue to brand hijab to its true potential from here on.
I take full responsibility of all decisions made and I can only learn from the mistakes. I am far from perfect and I respect your thoughts and feedbacks. I am truly, deeply sorry. Thank you."
According to published reports, the event took place in a popular Kuala Lumpur club called Zouk. Critics complained about the choice of venue even though event organisers claim they removed alcohol from the premises, ensured that no smoking took place, closed off access to bar areas and had an outside caterer bring in halal food, as well as serving dishes and utensils. The company said the location was selected because of its sound and lighting system and its availability.
The brand is available in 37 countries, and Neelofa has worked with brands including AirAsia, for which she designed a hijab for female pilots. However, this is the second highly public controversy in about a month for the actress and TV presenter, who was earlier criticised for her association with a beauty supplement for infants.
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