The Minister of Housing and Local Government (KPKT), Nga Kor Ming, who allegedly threatened a journalist when questioned about the use of Bahasa Melayu, was described as unprofessional and tarnishing the dignity of a member of the Cabinet.
Khairul Nadzir Helmi Azhar, the Information Chief of PAS Youth Malaysia, said the action set a bad example for the community and marred the credibility of the government institution.
“Such an act is highly inappropriate for a minister to do. It not only shows a childish attitude but also tarnishes the ethics and image of the government administration,” he said in a statement on Friday.
Khairul Nadzir also stressed that Bahasa Melayu is the National Language guaranteed by Article 152 of the Federal Constitution, and the responsibility to uphold its dignity is not merely an option or a temporary campaign.
“Bahasa Melayu cannot be set aside for commercial or tourism reasons. Tourists come to see our identity and culture, not to witness us sacrificing our own identity to cater to external tastes,” he asserted.
In light of this, he demanded an immediate explanation and a public apology from Nga Kor Ming to the involved journalist and to the people of Malaysia.
According to him, the government needs to set an example by prioritizing Bahasa Melayu in all official matters, including media statements, documents, signboards, and government events.
