THE recent controversy involving MyBurgerLab’s former Chief Operating Officer, Andrew Chong, should serve as a cautionary tale for all Malaysians on the importance of religious and cultural sensitivity, said Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail.
“This demonstrates that they (MyBurgerLab) took the matter seriously and acted accordingly. The takeaway here is that our nation’s social fabric, which allows us to live in peace, must always be preserved,” he said.
Saifuddin was speaking to reporters following the launch of the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency’s (Maritim Malaysia) Kampung Angkat Madani programme.
Chong was dismissed after drawing public ire over his remarks criticising the Terengganu state government's decision to fine Muslim men for skipping Friday prayers without valid reasons. His comments were widely perceived as insensitive to the Muslim community.
The burger chain later confirmed his termination, stating that Chong’s views did not reflect those of the company. “We do not share Andrew’s sentiments, which have caused anger and disappointment among the Muslim community,” MyBurgerLab said in a statement.
“We take full responsibility for this lapse and strongly condemn all forms of discrimination or disrespect towards any religion. We stand firmly with our Muslim community. To all who were affected, we extend our sincere apologies,” the company added.
MyBurgerLab also pledged to review its internal policies and conduct cultural sensitivity training in collaboration with experts, including officers from the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM).
Chong himself had issued a public apology after facing widespread backlash on the platform X, saying he deeply regretted his remarks.
“It was an unthoughtful action and I take full responsibility. My values are grounded in respect and inclusivity, but I failed in this instance,” he said.
In the original post that sparked the uproar, Chong had likened Malaysia’s trajectory to that of post-revolution Iran, commenting: “Slowly but surely, Malaysia will be taken over by extremists. We will become like Iran after the revolution. What’s happening today is frightening.”
Separately, Saifuddin also reminded convoy organisers to brief participants on road safety laws such as speed limits and safe distances, and to coordinate with police to avoid unwanted incidents.
“Convoy riding is a hobby worth encouraging, but it must comply with safety guidelines. We must ensure that it does not endanger other road users, especially when lives are at stake,” he said.
He was referring to the RXZ Members 7.0 2025 event held at the Gong Badak Motorsport Circuit in Terengganu, which drew attention after a fatal accident involving one of the participants. - August 24, 2025
