Local Sushi Restaurant Criticised By M’sians For Their Racially Insensitive & Offensive Advert

Now more than ever, the advertising and marketing of a business is crucial in playing a huge part in attracting potential customers, which could translate into sales and profits.

However, sometimes, it is best to review your advert and the themes around it before you present it to the world.

Recently, a local Japanese and sushi chain restaurant released an advert where they were promoting the launch of their first ever outlet in the Northern side of Peninsular Malaysia.

The video featured a local content creator along with a group of friends trying out the sushi. The content creator is then seen with sellotapes on the sides of his eyes to make it more slanted. 

In one of the scenes, he was seen struggling with chopsticks to which he threw them away and used his hands to eat the pieces of sushi instead.

Called out for being offensive

The video has not gone down well with Malaysians who were quick to point out the lack of respect for Japanese food and culture.

“Racist and offensive to no end. You sell Japanese food but you want to support such stupid influencers with stupid content. He even sellotaped his eyes to make it look slanted. Are you stupid? What kind of branding is this,” said a user.

Another listed out a few points on why the advert is so horrific and said, “This is such a racist and insensitive sushi advert.”

“The usage of the Japanese language is incorrect and playful. Why does he blurt out random brands.”

The advert also captured the attention of well known food reviewer Ceddy who said that even though the influencer has tons of followers, this isn’t the best way to promote the restaurant.

“No need to use cheap gimmicks. You sell Japanese food so be a bit more respectful with their culture, is there a need to make the slanted eyes in the video,” he asked.

Watch the video here.

What do you think of the video? Offensive or just playful?

Also read: Aliff Syukri’s Latest Advertisement For A Hijab Business Features Inappropriate Behaviour