SHAH ALAM - Malaysia's popular actress and TV presenter Noor Neelofa Mohd Noor known for her roles in television and entrepreneurship, is once again at the centre of controversy due to her recent alleged marketing strategies.
The backlash arose from the use of images that many netizens interpreted as having double meanings, particularly likening fruits to female intimate anatomy.
Neelofa, through Nilofa Group, shared on Instagram about ISTERIX, a product aimed at enhancing marital relationships.
The post included advertisements featuring fruit images that some claimed resembled female intimate anatomy.
In response to Neelofa's Instagram post, netizens voiced their disapproval in the comments section.
Many slammed the imagery as inappropriate and insensitive, questioning the marketing tactics employed by the entrepreneur.
Neelofa, known for her modest appearance, including wearing the hijab, also faced criticism for the perceived mismatch between her public image and the content of her advertisements.
Netizens criticised these marketing tactics as unsuitable for promoting women's health products and viewed Neelofa's approach as insensitive to societal norms.
X user @mutyaarantero stressed, "Is this kind of imagery necessary? It's embarrassing to see. Could have used a different approach; as a Muslimah entrepreneur, sensitivity should be a priority."
@saidatulnurfatihah commented, "Marketing approved by a veiled female entrepreneur."
@Mimiaqqq added, "People wouldn't criticise if the founder carried the image of religion. But this is bad marketing. Aren't you ashamed? Don't say we're not open-minded; this picture clearly depicts a woman's private parts. It's disgraceful marketing."
@Hanihzh said, "Disgusting. Doesn't match the appearance. Aren't you ashamed?"
@Ainaa.mcnugget commented, "This is so disturbing, objectifying women, totally uncalled for. How can Neelofa, a figure in hijab, approve such marketing?"
@Emmawhite90 stressed, "Disgusting. Clearly objectifying. Very disturbing."
@Aana_zuriana said, "Was it necessary to post such images? What's wrong with your brain cells?"
@Musang_kelabu commented, "Free explicit content."
@Nurulafiqa stressed, "Seriously Hajah? Approved by a niqabi founder, these double-meaning images for marketing?!"
Netizens suggested that as a Muslim entrepreneur, she should exercise greater sensitivity in promoting such products and consider alternative, more respectful marketing strategies.
Many pointed out that as a prominent figure in the Muslim community, Neelofa should have been more mindful of the impact of her marketing on societal norms and values.
Meanwhile, in an immediate response, Nilofa Group apologised for the presentation of the said product.
"We humbly apologise to all parties involved for the misunderstanding regarding the presentation of our product.
"We acknowledge the feedback from the community and promise to be more cautious and sensitive in our future communications. Thank you for your understanding and support," read a statement from the Instagram post.