KUALA LUMPUR — Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming has issued a public apology and withdrawn remarks he made during the pre-launch of Bukit Bintang’s “I Lite U” lighting initiative, following backlash over his exchange with a journalist.
Speaking at a press conference after officiating the opening of Madani Park at Taman Book Bak in Ipoh today, Nga said he accepted all feedback regarding his comments and acknowledged that they may have caused offence.
“Today, on this beautiful Sunday, I wholeheartedly welcome all feedback concerning my misstep during the Bukit Bintang Kuala Lumpur Lighting Programme,” he said, as quoted by Bernama.
“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.”
Nga stressed that he respects the role of the media and values freedom of expression as essential to the country’s democratic principles.
“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.
The apology comes after a video went viral showing Nga responding in a stern tone to a question from a journalist about the use of English in the campaign name “I Lite U” on Wednesday.
The minister’s reaction drew criticism from media advocacy groups, including the National Union of Journalists Malaysia (NUJM) and Gerakan Media Merdeka (Geramm), who urged public officials to engage with the press respectfully. — November 2, 2025