Malaysian couple slammed for celebrating their cat's birthday at Louis Vuitton boutique

Haliza Maysuri and her husband, Mohd Rosli Awang, founders of the Muslim apparel brand Bawal Exclusive are facing backlash online for celebrating their cat's 7th birthday at a Louis Vuitton boutique.

Many have stated that the celebration was extravagant and suggested the money could have been spent better on other things.

The entrepreneur couple organised the celebration for their cat, Money, at the Louis Vuitton store in Gardens Mal, Kuala Lumpur. The event included a birthday cake presented by staff and a birthday song.

The event came to light when Maysuri posted photos and videos on Instagram on May 10, showing Money dressed in a grey Swarovski crystal-studded dress designed by Malaysian designer Rizalman Ibrahim.

Maysuri expressed her affection for Money, writing, "Alhamdulillah, our child is seven today. Happy birthday Money... Mama, papa prayed that Money lives long with health and intelligence." She also referred to Money as their "youngest child."

The couple reportedly gifted the cat aLouis Vuitton collar with the letter 'M' costing over RM3,000 (US$634) and a custom-made pouch featuring Money’s illustration.

While some Malaysians wished the cat a happy birthday and praised the owners' affection, others criticised the couple for the extravagantcelebrations.

"While all eyes are on Rafah, you rich people (are) busy celebrating a cat’s birthday, not sensitive," one netizen remarked, referring to the southern Gazacity involved in the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict.

An Instagram user commented, "Why don’t you spend that money on your poor people? You are wasting your money."

A TikTok user added, "I hope you can help the stray cats who need funds and food to live a good life."Maysuri eventually deleted the post from Instagram owing to the backlash.

The couple has been known to splurge on Money. In August 2023, Maysuri made headlines after she reportedly bought a BMW for Money. She later revealed that it was a promotional strategy for Bawal Exclusive. The brand is known for creating the world's most expensive headscarf.