Tourism Minister, Dato Seri Tiong King Sing has responded to his apologies to the Chinese tourists and said there has been a misunderstanding about the nature of the apology.
He was NOT apologising for the signboard issues or DBKL’s “extreme execution”.
In a video explanation posted on his Facebook account, Tiong said he was extending his apologies to the Chinese tourists for a serious accident that took place in Malaysia – the Cameron Highland tour bus tragedy.
Tiong also provided a Facebook link that redirects to his initial apology for the matter and said,
“As the host, we need to make sure the tourists can enjoy their vacation safely and happily. It is saddening that some of them came to Malaysia for a holiday, only to end up in a tragedy. So, what’s wrong with my apology?”
In his video, Tiong took the opportunity to remind DBKL to communicate properly with the food vendors regarding the signboard issues to maintain peace and harmony and reminded everyone not to bring up racial issues in this matter.
“What’s wrong with an additional language on a signboard? Just communicate with the vendors nicely.”
“Dr Akmal Saleh, you’re not a hero”
Tiong named a few politicians in his video who questioned his apology, including the UMNO Youth Chief whom Tiong fired back in his video, and asked about his contributions to the people so far.
“As an EXCO in Malacca, I would like to know what you have done for the people there so far. You shouldn’t be racist. That’s very rude! Enough is enough, and don’t think of yourself as a hero! Please use your brain!”
Tiong also said that he is open to any constructive criticism.
“If I make mistakes, I will humbly acknowledge and fix my mistakes. I hope we can stop creating chaos, especially with issues that will not benefit the country.”
What do you think of Tiong’s explanation?