IPOH, Nov 2: Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming today apologised and retracted remarks he made during the pre-launch of the Bukit Bintang’s I Lite U lighting initiative recently.
Nga said he accepts all feedback regarding his remarks during the programme and withdraws any statements that may have caused confusion or upset among members of the media.
“Today, on this beautiful Sunday, I wholeheartedly welcome all feedback concerning my misstep during the Bukit Bintang Kuala Lumpur Lighting Programme.
“If any members of the media were offended by my remarks, I retract them and apologise, so that we can focus on efforts to rebuild our beloved nation,” he said at a press conference for the MADANI Park opening ceremony at Taman Book Bak today.
Nga emphasised that he holds the media and their freedom of expression in the highest regard as they carry out their duties.
“…I retract my remarks and apologise, so we can concentrate on efforts to uphold and elevate the nation’s dignity.
“My focus is on the nation’s development, which is what truly matters,” he said.
A video previously went viral showing Nga responding in a slightly stern tone to a media practitioner’s question about the use of English in the campaign name for I Lite U on Wednesday.
The minister’s conduct drew widespread criticism, including from the National Union of Journalists Malaysia (NUJM) and the Gerakan Media Merdeka (GERAMM).
— BERNAMA