Malaysian pharmacy store chain BIG Pharmacy has issued an apology today after receiving backlash for an offensive promo video starring a local influencer.
The offensive video has since been removed, though snippets from it are still available online, reshared by social media users such as in this X post.
The video depicted a skit at an undisclosed pharmacy outlet where a customer, played by the influencer, tries to discretely buy condoms from a cashier, also portrayed by the influencer.
However, that is where the video turned awry, as the influencer, a Malaysian-Chinese, donned an “Indian” outfit and portrayed a cashier of Indian descent with offensive racial stereotypes.
These include speaking in a thick accent with over-the-top mannerisms and worse, scanning items at the counter with a “bindi” drawn on his forehead with a marker.
In their apology post on Facebook, BIG Pharmacy said that they’re extending their sincerest apologies for the recent “insensitive promotional video” and that they recognised “the hurtful and offensive nature of the content”, taking full responsibility for the lack of due diligence.
The statement further asserted,
“The content in question goes against our values of diversity and inclusivity and we have already taken immediate steps to address this issue internally to ensure that such a situation does not happen again.”
“We are, and have always been, committed to inclusion and respect. This mistake is one that we take seriously, will learn from, and improve as we serve all members of our community.”
BIG Pharmacy stressed that they will do better to ensure that their content is respectful, sensitive and representative of the vibrant culture within the Malaysian community.
You can watch the video below, though viewers’ discretion are advised.
So, what do you guys think of the whole situation? Share your thoughts with us in the comments.
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