Just when we were done with ‘Goat Xi Fa Cai’, IKEA surprises once again with the bling-themed Hari Raya Campaign. Featuring a Malay family pulling urban poses, complete with gold chains ala Mr. T, aviators, Lakers jerseys, and studded snapbacks, their seasonal headliner has definitely got people talking, squirming in their seats, laughing, but also fuming in anger. They've since taken down campaign images on their website and Facebook page, but their Hari Raya promotions are still up on display.
On the IKEA Facebook page, commenters have expressed their disapproval of the campaign, stating “a misrepresentation of why we celebrate Ramadan and Syawal.” Adding to the comment, Facebook user Hamidah Srikandi Melayu also explained that the significance of Hari Raya is not about spending money, redecorating and “showing off your wealth.” Others have made more grave claims saying that they will not be buying anything from the store anytime soon.
IKEA has replied to their concerned customers, apologising to the offended folks and taking down all their related campaign images. Reactions are pretty 50/50 — some are thankful about the retraction while others felt that people should just take a chill pill, and learn to laugh a little.
Distasteful, hilarious, or you couldn’t chair less – what do you think?
Photos: IKEA Singapore website
Story: Delfina Utomo / Vulcan post
Just when we were done with ‘Goat Xi Fa Cai’, IKEA surprises once again with the bling-themed Hari Raya Campaign. Featuring a Malay family pulling urban poses, complete with gold chains ala Mr. T, aviators, Lakers jerseys, and studded snapbacks, their seasonal headliner has definitely got people talking, squirming in their seats, laughing, but also fuming in anger. They've since taken down campaign images on their website and Facebook page, but their Hari Raya promotions are still up on display.
On the IKEA Facebook page, commenters have expressed their disapproval of the campaign, stating “a misrepresentation of why we celebrate Ramadan and Syawal.” Adding to the comment, Facebook user Hamidah Srikandi Melayu also explained that the significance of Hari Raya is not about spending money, redecorating and “showing off your wealth.” Others have made more grave claims saying that they will not be buying anything from the store anytime soon.
IKEA has replied to their concerned customers, apologising to the offended folks and taking down all their related campaign images. Reactions are pretty 50/50 — some are thankful about the retraction while others felt that people should just take a chill pill, and learn to laugh a little.
Distasteful, hilarious, or you couldn’t chair less – what do you think?
Photos: IKEA Singapore website
Story: Delfina Utomo / Vulcan post