KK Mart once again made headlines but in a rather inspiring way. PMX’s recent visit to Uzbekistan was accompanied by Dato Seri Dr. KK Chai, the founder of KK Mart where he signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the government of the Samarkand region.
Dr. KK Chai on the right
In a statement by KK Mart, Chai said the MoU aims to strengthen the ties between Malaysia and the Republic of Uzbekistan and to promote economic activities. With the MoU signed, KK Mart will open more branches in Uzbekistan where Malaysian goods will be introduced to the local markets there.
In return, KK Mart will open a specialised store to introduce and promote Uzbekistan products, particularly the country’s agricultural products.
PMX had the luxury to witness the historical moment of the MoU’s signing – a kickstart of the Malaysian mart’s expansion in the Central Asian market.
Dr. KK Chai standing next to PMX
Despite being a country that’s rich with Islamic culture, UMNO Youth Leader, Dr. Akmal Saleh is NOT happy about the business expansion. In his FB post, Akmal made it clear that he stood firm with his decision to keep boycotting KK Mart.
And Malaysians will remember why – the Allah socks matter, to which Chai had repeatedly and publicly apologised, as well as promising Malaysian consumers that history will NOT repeat itself.
Regardless, Akmal couldn’t fathom why out of all convenience stores in Malaysia, KK Mart got to expand its business overseas.
“There’s so many stores in Malaysia and yet, KK Mart was chosen. Don’t ask my why. Please direct your questions to the PM.”
What would Akmal do if it was up to him? The Russian-trained medical practitioner was blunt about his thoughts, and said,
“If it was me, KK Mart wouldn’t get to tag along to Uzbekistan. Keep boycotting.”
In case you missed it, KK Mart caused online debate when a few of its chains were caught selling socks with Allah’s logo. The convenience store “escaped” the wrath of many Malaysians after its apologies and effort to improve, but not Akmal’s.
Are you happy to see a Malaysian store making names globally?
Also read: Akmal Says Country’s Economy Was Doing Well Under Najib Razak’s Leadership Despite the Boycotts
