KUALA LUMPUR – The Malaysian Muslim Restaurant Owners Association (Presma) has condemned the violent altercations that erupted at two restaurants during public screenings of the 2026 FIFA World Cup clash between Argentina and Egypt, stressing that football should unite people rather than divide them.
Speaking to Scoop, Presma president Datuk Mohamed Mosin Abdul Razak said the association viewed the incidents seriously and denounced any form of violence that disrupted public order and tarnished the image of restaurants as safe gathering places for families and communities.
“We strongly condemn any form of violence or behaviour that disturbs other patrons and damages the reputation of restaurants as places where people come together,” he said.
Mosin said mamak restaurants had long served as meeting places where Malaysians of all races and backgrounds gathered to enjoy meals while watching live sporting events.
“The spirit of sport should unite people, not become a reason for disputes or physical confrontations,” he said.
@scoopdotmy A World Cup watch party in Subang Jaya descended into chaos after a brawl broke out, with chairs seen flying across the venue in a video now circulating on social media. The viral post claims the fight began moments after Argentina scored their second goal during the Round of 16 clash against Egypt. The dramatic footage has sparked reactions online, with many calling for fans to keep their passion for football in check and remember that the beautiful game is meant to unite, not divide. #FIFAWorldCup #WorldCup2026 #WC2026 #football #argentina ♬ original sound – Scoopdotmy
His remarks came after two separate brawls broke out during public screenings of Argentina’s 3-2 round-of-16 victory over Egypt in the FIFA World Cup last night.
One incident occurred at a restaurant in Subang Jaya, while another was reported at a nasi kandar restaurant in Johor Bahru.
Videos of both altercations quickly spread across social media, drawing widespread criticism over the behaviour of those involved.
Mosin stressed that the incidents were isolated and did not reflect the conduct of the vast majority of customers, who continued to behave responsibly and respectfully.
“Nevertheless, such incidents can negatively affect public perception of restaurants that provide live screenings of football matches,” he said.
He urged restaurant operators to strengthen preventive measures, particularly during high-profile matches expected to draw large crowds.
Among the measures he proposed were closer monitoring by restaurant management, stronger cooperation with the authorities where necessary, and clear incident response procedures to safeguard customers.
At the same time, Mosin reminded football supporters to embrace the true values of sportsmanship by respecting rival fans, controlling their emotions and avoiding unnecessary provocation.
“Winning or losing is part and parcel of sport. However, courtesy, mutual respect and the safety of everyone must always come first,” he said.
He also cautioned against singling out mamak restaurants over the incidents, noting that similar altercations could occur at any food or entertainment venue.
“It is unfair for netizens to suggest that incidents like these only happen at mamak restaurants. Such situations can occur at any food outlet or entertainment premises,” he said.
Mosin added that Presma would continue working closely with the authorities and restaurant operators to ensure its members’ premises remained safe, family-friendly and welcoming for all.
Argentina booked their place in the World Cup quarterfinals after edging Egypt 3-2 in a thrilling round-of-16 encounter. The defending champions will face Switzerland on July 12 for a place in the semifinals. – July 8, 2026