The Editors’ Association of Chinese Medium of Malaysia is concerned about the intimidating remark made by Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming for disagreeing with the question asked by a journalist.

The respond by Nga– “I will call your editor-in-chief” has undermined the professionalism and dignity of journalists, it said. 

The association expressed regret and said that no one, including a minister, should respond to media questions in such manner.

Therefore, retracting the remark and offering an apology would be the best way to resolve the controversy swiftly.

In a statement addressing the incident involving Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming,  the association said the reporter was merely carrying out his professional duty and deserved respect and acceptance.

“When media-government interactions are built on mutual respect and understanding, it does not only enhance the quality of public communication but also strengthen society’s trust in both the government and the media,” it said.

The association urges Nga to meet with the Utusan Malaysia editorial team as soon as possible to defuse the public relations crisis.

The association further said that while any interviewee has the right to respond, the tone and manner of response require wisdom and tact — for sometimes, excessive tone harms others and oneself.

The Tourism industry in Malaysia has been successfully promoted under the “Malaysia Truly Asia” campaign, and the new “I Lite U” slogan, used to illuminate the Golden Triangle in Kuala Lumpur, was not wrong and its goal of attracting more tourists is commendable, it said.

However, the association said that had the minister responded to journalists with humility and courtesy, the outcome would have been entirely different.