Thai influencer apologizes after wearing Arab attire to promote pork
Netizens from both Buddhist, Muslim communities flood his comment section with criticism
BANGKOK, Thailand (MNTV) – A Thai social media influencer issued an apology after sparking criticism for wearing Islamic attire while promoting grilled pork at his restaurant in the northern province of Phetchabun, The Thaiger reports.
The 48 year old influencer, Charoensak “Tony” Phosichai, better known online as Uncle Tony, posted a TikTok video promoting his restaurant, Krua Lung Tony (which translates to Uncle Tony’s Kitchen).
In the video, Tony is seen wearing a white long dress known as a thawb (or thobe), which is traditionally worn by Muslims, particularly during prayers, important events, and religious ceremonies.
In some Arab countries, it is also worn daily.
Wearing a thawb might not have drawn backlash had it not been for the fact that Tony was holding grilled pork, a food strictly prohibited in Islam.
In the video, Tony is heard saying “Hi! Happy Songkran Festival! Wishing you all wealth and good health. Let’s celebrate Thai New Year! Anyone interested in trying grilled pork can visit us at Krua Lung Tony.”
Tony is then seen serving the grilled pork dish to a customer while still dressed in traditional Islamic attire, encouraging his followers to visit his restaurant before the video ends.
Netizens from both Buddhist and Muslim communities flooded the comment section with criticism, demanding that Tony remove the video.
“Uncle, you shouldn’t wear these clothes to promote pork. You know it’s not appropriate. Don’t think only about the views,” one netizen wrote.
Another said: “Why are you doing this? You’re rich and can do anything, can’t you? Even though I’m Buddhist, I respect Muslims. I used to be your fan, but I’m going to unfollow you now.”
Tony later deleted the video and posted an apology on his page saying: “I’m Tony and I would like to apologize to all Muslims for wearing the clothing while promoting grilled pork. I had no intention to insult anyone or your religion. I have friends in the Islamic community as well. I have already removed the video. I sincerely apologize again for what I have done.”
Have Your Say!
Have you been affected by the issues raised in this story? Please share your experiences by emailing haveyoursay@soundvision.com.
Please include a contact number if you are willing to speak to a Muslim Network TV’s representative. You can also get in touch in the following ways:
Tweet: @MuslimNetworkTV
We must take charge of our narrative. Research indicates that 92% of their Muslim coverage is negative. Help us change that.
